Flight feather

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Rectrix)

Milvus milvus R(ThKraft)
Birdwing
Haliaeetus leucocephalus7 (softeis)
Buteo buteo primary secondary
Wing taxis

Flight feathers are the long, stiff, asymmetrically shaped, but symmetrically paired feathers on the wings or tail of a bird; these feathers are essential for flight. The primary function of the flight feathers is to aid in the generation of both lift and thrust, allowing birds to navigate through the air. There are two main types of flight feathers: remiges, which are located on the wings, and rectrices, found on the tail.

Types of Flight Feathers[edit | edit source]

Remiges[edit | edit source]

The remiges are the feathers attached to the wing of a bird. These are divided into two groups: the primaries, which are attached to the manus (the bird's "hand"), and the secondaries, which are attached to the ulna (the forearm). The primaries are the bird's main source of propulsion, while the secondaries help with lift and are important for stability and control.

Rectrices[edit | edit source]

The rectrices are the tail feathers. They are used primarily for steering and braking. These feathers are crucial for maneuverability, allowing the bird to make sharp turns, slow down, or make a controlled landing.

Structure[edit | edit source]

Flight feathers are characterized by a strong, central shaft (rachis) with a series of barbs on either side. The barbs have smaller barbules, which interlock to form a smooth, aerodynamic surface. This structure allows the feathers to be both strong and flexible, characteristics essential for flight.

Molting[edit | edit source]

Birds periodically replace their feathers through a process called molting. Molting is crucial for maintaining the health and functionality of the flight feathers, as it allows damaged or worn feathers to be replaced with new ones. The process is often gradual to ensure that the bird retains enough feathers to continue flying.

Evolution[edit | edit source]

The evolution of flight feathers is a significant aspect of the evolution of birds. Fossil evidence suggests that feathers evolved in dinosaurs before the appearance of birds. The exact pathway of this evolution is a subject of ongoing research, but it is clear that flight feathers were a key adaptation in the evolution of birds from theropod dinosaurs.

Function in Flight[edit | edit source]

Flight feathers are essential for the different modes of bird flight, including flapping, gliding, and soaring. The arrangement and size of these feathers can vary significantly among species, reflecting differences in flight style and behavior. For example, birds of prey have large, broad wings with robust flight feathers for soaring, while fast-flying birds like swallows have long, narrow wings with streamlined feathers.

Conservation[edit | edit source]

The condition of a bird's flight feathers can be an indicator of its overall health and well-being. In conservation efforts, the health of these feathers is often assessed to determine the health status of bird populations. Additionally, the illegal trade of flight feathers from endangered species is a conservation concern, as it can threaten the survival of these species.


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD