Avian Medicine Q&A 01

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Feathers are the most distinctive feature of avian anatomy

Question	Answer		Article
What are the three main functions of feathers?	Feathers are unique structures of the skin that provide insulation for controlling body temperature, aerodynamic power for flight and colours for communication and camouflage. Feathers also perform secondary roles. Modified feathers are important in swimming, sound production, hearing, protection, cleanliness, water repelling, water transport and tactile sensation.		Link to Article
Give a description of the function of the following feathers: flight feathers, down feathers, semiplumes, filoplumes and bristles.	The flight feathers of the tail attach to the pygostyle and function primarily in steering and braking during flight. Down feathers have loosely entangled barbules that trap air in a layer close to the skin, providing an excellent natural, lightweight thermal insulation. Powderdowns assist in cleaning the plumage. Semiplumes enhance thermal insulation, fill out the aerodynamic contours of body plumage and serve as courtship ornaments. Filoplumes are hairlike feathers that monitor the movement and position of adjacent veined feathers aiding aerodynamic adjustments. Bristles are specialized feathers with both sensory and protective functions, e.g. eyelashes of ostriches or facial feathers of raptors.		Link to Article