contour feathers
Outer bird plumage
Contour feathers are the outer feathers that cover a bird's body and give it its visible shape.
They overlap like shingles, creating a smooth, streamlined surface that sheds water and aids flight.
The term distinguishes them from the soft down feathers underneath, which provide insulation rather than structure.
- quillsHollow defensive animal spikes
- barbsSharp points or jibes
- shaftNarrow vertical passage
- rachisCentral supporting shaft
- featheringAdjusting blade pitch horizontally
vane · calamus · plumage · bird wing · preening · oil gland · coverts · hooklets · keratin · ornithology · waterproof · birds · bird anatomy · wing · body · molt · aerodynamic · smooth
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