A bird's wing speed is typically much faster than the speed of the air it moves through. When a bird flaps its wings, it creates a relative motion between its wings and the surrounding air. The speed at which a bird's wings move, often measured in beats per second or beats per minute, can vary depending on the species and the bird's behavior (such as cruising, hovering, or diving).
On average, birds have wingbeat frequencies ranging from around 5 to 15 beats per second, with smaller birds generally having higher wingbeat frequencies. For example, hummingbirds are known for their rapid wingbeats, with some species exceeding 50 beats per second. Larger birds, like eagles or albatrosses, tend to have slower wingbeat frequencies.
In comparison, the speed of the air the bird moves through, also known as the airspeed, is generally lower than the wingbeat frequency. The airspeed of a bird is influenced by various factors, including wind conditions, the bird's flight maneuvers, and its speed relative to the ground. Airspeeds can vary greatly among bird species, ranging from a few kilometers per hour in slow-flying birds to over 100 kilometers per hour in birds of prey or migratory species.
It's important to note that the relationship between a bird's wing speed and the airspeed is not a simple one-to-one correlation. Factors such as wing shape, angle of attack, and wing morphology play significant roles in determining a bird's flight performance and efficiency. Birds can adjust their wingbeats and wing movements to optimize lift, propulsion, and maneuverability based on their specific flight requirements and environmental conditions.