That’s an experiment I made several months ago trying to animate a bird taking off.
youtube.com/watch?v=gGJGtHUc3mQ
I’m not sure I succeeded in my animation purpose. However, the bird resulted a pretty versatile object I would like to share with you (hoping you may find it useful).
In the “Groups” panel you will find the Control Box which will allow you an easy and direct control over the wings and the articulation movements.
The bird’s articulations.
Enjoy your flight! 
Bird.sifz (23.8 KB)