Big Bird is one of the most iconic and beloved characters on Sesame Street. He is an 8-foot, 2-inch tall bright yellow anthropomorphic canary who lives in a nest behind the 123 Sesame Street brownstone. Big Bird was one of the original main characters created for Sesame Street by puppeteer Jim Henson and writer Jon Stone when the show first premiered in 1969. Over the past 50+ years, Big Bird has become an integral part of the Sesame Street family and a symbol of childhood innocence and learning. But what exactly is Big Bird supposed to be? Let’s take a closer look at his origins and traits to understand the nature of this big, yellow, feathered friend.
Big Bird’s Origins
When Sesame Street was first created, the show’s producers and writers imagined Big Bird as a “funny, awkward” character who could interact with both the human actors and the other Muppet characters on the show. He was given the species designation of a canary, which accounts for his bright yellow feathers. However, at over 8 feet tall, Big Bird is far larger than your average canary! So how did he get so big?
According to Sesame Street lore, Big Bird was designed to be the same size as the actual bird suit being worn by Caroll Spinney, the first puppeteer to take on the role. The costume was built very large so that Spinney could fit comfortably inside and perform the character. So in essence, Big Bird grew to the size of his costume. His towering height allows him to interact directly with human characters, especially children, on their level.
Big Bird’s Age and Childlike Traits
Though Big Bird has been around for over 50 years, he is perpetually written as a 6-year-old child. He lives alone in his nest, attending “nest school” and enjoying childlike activities like roller-skating, drawing, and riding his “tricycle”. Many of his storylines revolve around learning important developmental lessons such as sharing, cooperation, and handling emotions. His best friend Mr. Snuffleupagus acts as his imaginary playmate, supporting Big Bird’s innocent view of the world.
Big Bird also exhibits common childhood traits like curiosity, playfulness, imaginary flights of fancy, and sensitivity. He is often naive about the ways of the grown-up world. His innocence allows him to interact with people without prejudice or judgment, seeing everyone as a potential friend. However, this also makes him emotionally vulnerable when others treat him unkindly. Big Bird maintains a child’s unconditional loving spirit despite setbacks and challenges.
Big Bird’s Species Identity
Though originally designated a canary, Big Bird lacks some of the traits that ornithologists would use to classify him as such. For one, canaries are small finch species that only grow up to 5 inches long – quite tiny compared to Big Bird’s imposing height! His coloring also differs from the bright yellow-green hues of true canaries.
Big Bird’s feather structure, wing shape, oversized facial features, and large fuzzy feet align him more with other species such as:
- Ostrich – large flightless bird with long legs and neck
- Emu – second largest living bird after ostrich, unable to fly
- Dodo – extinct, flightless bird with distinct rounded body
In more recent years, the Sesame Street team has simply classified Big Bird as a “large yellow bird” to avoid adhering to specific ornithological species. His unique traits and characteristics exist outside of biological taxonomy.
Big Bird’s Personality and Relationships
While his species may be undefined, Big Bird has a vibrant, well-rounded personality all his own. Some of his key character traits include:
- Innocent and naive – exemplifies childhood curiosity and wonder
- Caring and empathetic – quick to help friends in need
- Imaginative and creative – enjoys pretend play and inventing games/stories
- Sensitive – gets feelings hurt easily but also deeply loyal
- Literal-minded – takes things very concretely and at face value
Big Bird forms close emotional bonds with the other characters. He considers Gordon and Susan to be father and mother figures. His best buddy is Mr. Snuffleupagus, with whom he shares ideas, fantasies, and problems. He also develops friendships with characters his own “age” like Elmo, Abby Cadabby, and Telly Monster. Big Bird requires guidance, nurturing, and plenty of patience, but offers unconditional love and acceptance in return.
Big Bird’s Job on Sesame Street
In many ways, Big Bird serves as the audience’s avatar and guide through the world of Sesame Street. His primary job is to ask questions and learn right alongside the young viewers at home. Big Bird models curiosity, empathy, problem-solving, and resilience when confronted with difficult concepts. He gives kids a friendly peer who shares their confusion and models working through challenges.
Big Bird also plays a reporting role on Sesame Street. He conducts interviews and investigates issues occurring around the neighborhood. Kids learn investigative techniques and critical thinking as Big Bird gathers facts and opinions as a “journalist”. He also lends his observational skills to activities like conducting surveys and polls to collect data.
Above all, Big Bird fosters self-acceptance and confidence by being comfortable in his own feathers. He embraces his unique self, talents, and interests without apology. Big Bird sends the vital message that it’s okay to be yourself and celebrate what makes you special.
Key Events in Big Bird’s History
Over five decades on television, Big Bird has gone through many experiences that enrich his character’s story. Here are some noteworthy events in his history:
Year | Event |
---|---|
1969 | Big Bird first introduced on the premiere episode of Sesame Street. |
1970 | Big Bird begins referring to Mr. Hooper as “Grandpa”. Their close bond is formed. |
1983 | Big Bird learns about death after the passing of Mr. Hooper, helping kids process grief. |
1985 | Big Bird is featured prominently in Follow That Bird feature film. |
1992 | Hurricane Katrina destroys Big Bird’s nest on Sesame Street. |
2000 | Big Bird’s nest area rebuilt and upgraded with wood, tire swing, and flower box. |
2006 | A fledgling Big Bird is introduced in Abby in Wonderland special. |
2019 | Big Bird makes appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. |
Why Big Bird Endures
What explains Big Bird’s enduring popularity and appeal after 50+ years? There are a few key reasons this big yellow bird remains beloved by generations:
- Relatability – As a child learning about the world, Big Bird is a highly relatable character to kids.
- Warmth – His friendly, innocent nature makes him lovable and approachable.
- Growth – Kids enjoy watching Big Bird learn and grow just as they do.
- Acceptance – Big Bird embraces people of all ages, abilities, races, and species as friends.
- Resilience – He remains kind and optimistic even when confronted with challenges.
For millions around the globe, Big Bird is more than a character – he is a childhood companion who brings joy, comfort, and many lessons learned. His unique personality and role on Sesame Street continue to touch lives and make the world a little brighter.
Conclusion
Big Bird represents the innocence, imagination, and gentle spirit of childhood. While his exact species remains ambiguous, this 8-foot-tall fluffy bird is defined by much more than taxonomy. Over decades, his role as a guide, teacher, and friend has educated and uplifted generations of children. Big Bird embraces his identity, loves unconditionally, and maintains a sense of childlike wonder. This big, yellow feathered phenom proves that a kind heart and curious mind can have an enormous impact. He is a testament to the power of friendship and learning to make the world a little kinder.