Feather Structure

Question 1

What are feathers made out of?

Answer 1

Dead tissue (keratin)

Question 1

Describe the structure of bird feathers

Answer 1

• Central shaft (rachis and calamus)
• Barbs: extend parallel from rachis
• Barbules: branch off from barbs and interlock with barbicles (hooklets)

Question 2

Why is the structure of feathers important?

Answer 2

The shape determines how air moves over the wings

Question 3

What are the flight feathers?

Answer 3

• Primaries: anchored to the manus near the wing tip
• Secondaries: anchored to the ulna near the inner wing

Question 4

What are the purpose of contour feathers

Answer 4

• Cover the base of flight feathers
• Provide insulation, water proofing, streamlining etc.

Question 5

What are the contour feathers called?

Answer 5

• Primary coverts
• Secondary coverts

Question 6

Why are semiplume and down feathers fluffier than flight feathers?

Answer 6

They lack the interlocking system of barbules and barbicules (this is what gives them a fluffy look)

Question 7

Describe the structure of bristles

Answer 7

• Long, stiff
• Naked shaft
• Located near the mouth and eyes