Page 256 - The Origin of Birds and Flight

254 The Origin of Birds and Flight

Every living species has different features that can afford it an advan-
tage. The ostrich uses its wings for balance only as it runs at speeds of up
to 70 kilometers/hour (43.495 miles per hour). At 1.5 meters (4.92 feet) tall,
the emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) is the second-largest bird after the
ostrich. They also achieve running speeds of up to 50 kilometers/hour (31
mph).
On the other hand, the wings of some birds have functions besides
flight. Depending on the species, birds may sometimes use their wings for
balance when running, cooling themselves in hot weather,
warming up in cold weather, protecting their rib cage
in the event of a fall, frightening enemies, or provid-
ing shade for chicks.
Evolutionists maintain that birds of this kind
gradually lost their ability to fly. Contrary to
what they imagine, however, this claim con-
tributes nothing to the theory of evolution,