Stumpbill Stomper

The Stumpbill Stomper is the heaviest known flying species of bird. Unlike most birds, its skeletal structure is thick and sturdy. It has immensely strong wings and legs, which allow it to fly despite its heavy frame. However, the birds have very little stamina and are not able to fly long distances at a time. Unable to migrate to warmer climates, the Stumpbill spends its winters hibernating underground. After gorging itself on whatever food it can find for a week or two, the Stumpbill begins its ascent. It flies directly upward for a matter of hours, expending all its energy to get as much altitude as possible. Once the bird has used up the last of its stamina, or the air gets too thin for the bird to fly any higher, the Stumpbill tucks in its wings and goes into a freefall. The Stumpbill hits the ground, beak-first, with enough force to bury itself ten to twenty feet underground. The impact knocks it unconscious, but its sturdy frame usually prevents any major injuries. That is, unless it misses the soft earth of the hills and lands in the rocky valley. Just be thankful I don't have an illustration of that tragic scenario.