Why does a Flamingo have backward knees?

The simple truth is......THEY DO NOT.

Although flamingoes seem to have a peculiar walking

style, the long part that stretches down to their webbed

feet is actually their ankles. Their knees and legs remain

mostly concealed beneath their feathers which allows

them to easily wade through deeper waters.

If you think about it, this feature adds to the flamingos

reputation as one of the most graceful creatures on the

planet. Without bending at the knee, they extend one

straight leg, while balancing firmly on the other, as they

walk with a heel step motion.

This stance also helps them to save energy when standing

for a long time.