Field Identification: The “Steel Bird”
The Steel Bird, a robust member of the skies, ranges in length from a compact 20 meters for small commuter variants to a behemoth-like 80 meters for the heavy-duty, transcontinental flyers. Wingspan varies widely, depending on subspecies, with regional jets sporting a modest 25-30 meters, while long-haul species unfurl wingspans that rival or exceed 60 meters. Steel Birds are entirely flighted and boast the unique trait of never needing a nest—they simply taxi in, fuel up, and go, feeding only on aviation fuel and attention.
In all models, males and females look identical (biologists agree that Steel Birds are thoroughly monomorphic), though their markings may vary. Paint schemes, or “liveries,” provide clues to their migratory routes and allegiance, from the humble regional feeder routes of local airlines to the sleek, all-business plumage of private jets and flag-bearing giants of national airlines. Steel Birds don monochromatic tones (typically white and gray) with bright streaks of color on the tail or wingtips. These markings, as rare as they are dynamic, reflect the individual bird’s allegiance to its corporate “flock.”
Steel Birds are distinguished by their long, sleek metal bodies, which often have additional features such as winglets at the wingtips for improved aerodynamic efficiency. Their eyes—referred to as “cockpit windows”—are glossy black, with built-in sunshades and often framed by intricate, cautionary yellow-and-black markings for the safety of all surrounding creatures. The bill, or “nose cone,” is fixed and non-dagger-like, serving no predatory purpose other than housing highly sensitive radar.
Legs are specialized “landing gear,” retractable for better aerodynamics, with robust, rubber-clad wheels adapted for the rapid “takeoff” and “landing” maneuvers unique to this species. Migration is conducted along designated flight paths, known as “airways,” with speed and altitude carefully controlled by unseen forces called “air traffic controllers.” These majestic Steel Birds, though impressive, are generally skittish on land and prone to loud squawks if approached by ground vehicles.
During the “mating” or high travel season, Steel Birds may gather at large hubs in flocks of a hundred or more, showing off their new liveries and waiting impatiently for departure times.