Types of Bird Feathers

Bristle Bird Feathers Not all species of birds have bristle feathers. Bristles are specialized feathers that are believed to perform a tactile function.

The down of birds is a layer of fine feathers found under the tougher exterior feathers. Very young birds are clad only in down. Powder down is a specialized type of down found only in a few groups of birds. Down is a fine thermal insulator and padding, used in goods such as jackets, bedding , pillows and sleeping bags.

- includes large flight feathers of body and wings and tail with asymmetrical vanes - smaller contour ... feathers - feather vanes ... flight feathers in modern birds

Filoplume Bird Feathers Filoplumes are always situated beside other feathers. They are simple, hairlike structures that grow in circles around the base of contour or down feathers.

Semiplume Bird Feathers In appearance, semiplumes fall between contour feathers and down feathers, combining a large rachis with downy vanes. Semiplumes are distinguished from down feathers in that the rachis is longer than the longest barbs.