Full Story
The Bird That Flew 13,500 Kilometers Without Landing
Imagine boarding a flight...
and not landing for more than 11 days.
That's exactly what the bar-tailed godwit does every year.
An Incredible Journey
The bar-tailed godwit breeds in Alaska during the northern summer.
As winter approaches, it begins an astonishing nonstop journey across the Pacific Ocean to Australia and New Zealand.
One tracked bird flew more than 13,500 kilometers (8,400 miles) without landing once.
Preparing for the Impossible
Before takeoff, the bird undergoes dramatic physical changes.
It nearly doubles its body weight by storing fat, which becomes its primary fuel during the flight.
To reduce unnecessary weight, some internal organs, including parts of its digestive system, temporarily shrink while it is in the air.
Flying Day and Night
The godwit flies continuously through changing weather, powerful winds, and complete darkness.
Scientists believe birds can let one hemisphere of the brain rest at a time while remaining alert enough to continue flying, helping them cope with these extraordinary journeys.
Built by Evolution
The bird's streamlined body, efficient wings, and remarkable endurance make this migration possible.
By carefully timing departures with favorable winds, the godwit maximizes its chances of completing the crossing successfully.
Nature's Ultimate Marathon
For humans, flying 13,500 kilometers requires a modern aircraft.
For the bar-tailed godwit...
it's simply another migration.