Flapping Bird

The Flapping Bird is a classic example of action origami, meaning it is a kinetic model designed to move. When you hold its base and gently pull its tail, the paper wings of the bird flap up and down.

While they look similar, the Flapping Bird is structurally different from the traditional Crane (Tsuru). The Flapping Bird is usually made from a bird base but features a specialized tail fold that acts as a lever for the kinetic mechanism.

Standard origami paper, known as "kami," works perfectly for this model because it is thin and easy to crease. A slightly stiffer paper like tant can also be used to give the flapping wings more structural support.

The design was heavily popularized in the West by origami pioneers like Lillian Oppenheimer. She helped found the Origami Center of America in 1958 and frequently taught this specific interactive model to beginners.