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Feather - Anatomy & Physiology (view source)
Revision as of 09:27, 14 July 2008
, 09:27, 14 July 2008→Moult
*dramatic - over a few weeks
*dramatic - over a few weeks
*continual - e.g. powder down
*continual - e.g. powder down
Proximal control of the moult is complex and influenced by circannual rhythms of changing photoperiod and temperature. Pineal gland - hypothalamic - pituitary and autonomic nervous system - endocrine pathways seem to operate. Hormonal influences identified include:
*Oestrogens
*Progestogens
*Thyroid hormones
*Catecholamines
*Prolactin
Ultimate control of the moult involves many factors, the most influencial being '''nutrition'''.