16 Birds have evolved different ways of flying. Some, such as large seabirds, save energy by soaring and gliding. Other birds hover, keeping still in the air by beating their wings non-stop. Narrow wing provides lift when gliding Great black- backed gull wing Gull flight In flapping flight, a gull may travel at 40 kph (25 mph) while, in a strong updraught, it can stay motionless over the ground. Gliding gulls Slender, pointed wings enable gulls to glide on updraughts – currents of air deflected upwards by cliffs and hillsides. The lift generated by these updraughts is enough to support the great black-backed gull. Great black- backed gull Inner wing coverts mould wing to body Primary flight feathers reduce turbulence. Kestrel wing Kestrel Hanging in the air The kestrel hovers as its keen eyes pinpoint shrews and voles from high overhead. Kestrel flight The kestrel has a fluttering forward flight typical of falcons. Kestrel hovering The wings beat rapidly and the tail is fanned out to provide lift.