What Is a Fortunate Swimming Bird? A “fortunate swimming bird” isn’t a specific species, but rather a poetic or metaphorical way of describing a bird that thrives in water—perhaps even appearing lucky or blessed in its abilities. In this context, it could refer to birds like ducks, swans, penguins, or puffins, which are well-adapted to life in and around water. These birds are “fortunate” in the sense that evolution has gifted them with features like waterproof feathers, webbed feet, and strong swimming skills, allowing them to move effortlessly through lakes, rivers, and oceans.