Why Feathers Are Important to Birds

Feathers are one of the most characteristic feature of birds. The basic appeal of any bird is enhanced by its plumage. They may come in different forms, but no bird is devoid of this essential body part. Most birds are similar when it comes to the structure of their feathers. However, nature has provided birds of different species with certain modifications in the structure of feathers with the aim of adapting to their surroundings. Eagles utilize their feathers for soaring high in the sky; while the feathers of the American dipper facilitate its motion in water.

  1. Types of Feathers

    • Birds are bestowed with varied kinds of feathers, each having its own distinct function. Contour feathers cover the body of the bird, shielding it against the cold and seepage of water. Feathers present on the wings and tail of birds are known as flight feathers. True to their name, these feathers aid in flight. Semiplumes are feathers positioned amongst the contour feathers. They help to support the wings and also aid in insulating the bird's body. Birds also have another set of feathers known as down feathers, which aid in the trapping of air, thereby helping in insulation.

      Filoplumes are located around the contour feathers. Birds also have bristle feathers located around the beak and eyes. These feathers serve to protect the eyes, while those around the beak help to propel insects towards the mouth. In some birds, such as woodpeckers, bristles are presents around the nostrils to prevent tiny wood pieces from entering into the nostrils.

    Assistance in Flying

    • There would be no birds flying in the sky without the existence of feathers. The flight feathers are mainly involved in this function. The structure of these feathers showcases shorter vanes on the sides and longer vanes at the back, which in turn aid in the generation of an airfoil along with the wings. The swift movement of air over the feathers is responsible for providing the essential lift to the bird. Apart from facilitating flying, flight feathers also play a vital role in steering and halting.

    Trapping of Body Heat

    • Feathers are essential for birds in order to help them adapt to their habitats, thus making their survival easier. Apart from aiding flight, insulation is another key role performed by feathers. The small closely positioned feathers of a penguin trap the body heat, which is why the bird is able to survive in the icy cold waters and climate.

    Waterproofing

    • The feathers on the outside of the body stop the entry of water, keeping the bird dry. Preening is another activity that is responsible for keeping the feathers of birds dry. An oil producing gland positioned at the bottom of the tail in birds provides the necessary oil for waterproofing. This oil is easily spread over the feathers with the help of their beaks. The powder generated by the powder down feathers amongst pigeons and herons also serves the same purpose.

    Mating and Self Defense

    • As in the case of the peacock, birds are known to utilize the beauty of their plumage to attract a potential mate for copulation. On the other hand, birds such as the willow ptarmigans have the potential to alter the color of their feathers in coordination with the surroundings that acts as a camouflage protection against prey.