Vaned feathers[change | change source]
The main feathers which cover the outside of a bird are called vaned feathers. Vaned feather have a stiff center, with soft barbs on the side, which seem like hairs. The center is called a quill. This type of feather is called pennaceous (= like a pen).
Down feathers[change | change source]
Young birds have small feathers, called down, which keep them warm, but cannot be used for flying. Down is very soft. Adult birds have down, but also have vaned feathers on top of the down. Down is also used in blankets. Down feathers are just one example of plumaceous feathers (the word means 'fluffy'). Another example is the feathers on flightless birds such as the ostrich.
Moulting[change | change source]
Birds lose their feathers at certain times. This is called moulting. By moulting, a bird can replace old feathers with new ones. Many birds moult once every year.
Colour[change | change source]
Feathers give birds colour. The function of colour in birds is extremely important. It includes:
- Camouflage: it hides the bird in its natural environment, especially when it is stationary in the nest. Camouflage is often backed up with behaviour: see the bittern on its nest.
- Display: birds carry display colours when they need to be noticed by other birds. Often the male of a pair will do the display and wear colours, while the female is camouflaged. Display is usually backed up by behaviour, especially bird song. The main functions are:
- To attract a mate
- To signal and defend their territory.
Use by people[change | change source]
People use feathers for many purposes. In the past, quills were commonly used as pens, and colorful feathers were worn on hats. Many pillows, cushions, mattresses, coats, and quilts are stuffed with down. Feathers are also used by people of many tribes for decoration.
Further reading[change | change source]
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