Sonoma Mountain Ecology Notes

Celebrating and Caring for the Land

Shedding the Downy Feathers

In preparation for the oncoming winter, many birds shed their old down feathers to regrow new ones. Down feathers can be found as an insulating layer around the body, not useful for flying but crucial for maintaining body temperature. Where flight feathers achieve a sleek airfoil with interlocking barbs, barbules and hooklets, down feathers are good at being…fluffy and warm.

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