When you put water on a birds feather what will happen?

Water droplets on a bird's feathers exhibit a fascinating phenomenon due to the unique structure of their feathers. The surface of a bird's feather is covered in microscopic barbules, which are tiny hook-like structures that interlock with each other, creating a waterproof barrier. This interlocking mechanism traps air between the feathers and acts as an insulating layer, helping the bird maintain its body temperature.

When water comes into contact with a bird's feathers, several things happen:

1. Initial Contact: When a water droplet lands on a bird's feather, it initially forms a spherical shape due to surface tension. The barbules create tiny pockets of air between the feathers, preventing the water from penetrating and saturating the plumage.

2. Beading Effect: The barbules also cause the water droplets to bead up on the surface of the feathers. This beading effect is due to the hydrophobic nature of the feather's surface. The waxy coating on the feathers repels water and prevents it from spreading or being absorbed.

3. Self-Cleaning: As the bird moves or shakes its feathers, the beaded water droplets will roll off easily, taking away any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the feathers. This self-cleaning mechanism helps the bird maintain clean and waterproof feathers.

4. Preening: Birds also engage in regular preening behavior, using their beak to align and adjust their feathers. Preening helps distribute the natural oils produced by the bird's preen gland over the feathers, enhancing their water-resistant properties.

Overall, the intricate structure of a bird's feathers, with their barbules and waxy coating, makes them water-resistant. This waterproof characteristic is essential for birds as it provides protection against rain, cold temperatures, and predators, allowing them to survive in their natural environments.