Answer:
The greatest force is F = mg.
Explanation:
Applying Newton’s second law:
Σ F = m a
(Vectors are in bold, and we analyze components along x and y axes.)
Along the x-axis:
Fₓ = maₓ
Along the y-axis:
F_y - W = m a_y 
In this scenario, where the bird remains level, the wing force acts at an angle to the x-axis. The vertical component creates lift. Using trigonometry, the components are:
Cos θ = Fₓ / F ⇒ Fₓ = F cos θ
Sin θ = F_y / F ⇒ F_y = F sin θ
Substituting into the vertical force equation:
F sin θ - w = m a_y
Since the bird is hovering at the same height, vertical acceleration is zero (a_y = 0):
F sin θ = w = mg
The maximum lift occurs when sin θ = 1, thus:
F = mg