What are the types of feathers found on birds, and what are their ...

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What are the types of feathers found on birds, and what are their purposes?

Question 2

Why do many people believe that birds evolved from prehistoric reptiles?

[Melissahxx]

Answer to Question 1

Contour feathers give the bird its outward form; those contour feathers that extend beyond the body are
used in flight and are called flight feathers. The small, soft feathers located under the contour feathers are
referred to as down feathers; their primary function is to conserve body heat. Short, hair-like feathers, called
filoplume feathers, are found over the bird's entire body. They play a key role in sensory function and serve
as insulation. They are believed to send information about how feathers need to be adjusted to keep them in
place during preening, display, and flight. These filoplume feathers appear as the hairs on chickens that have
been plucked of their contour and down feathers. Powder-down feathers have tips that break down as they
mature and release a talc-like powder that provides waterproofing and luster; these feathers are found on
parrots and cockatoos.

Answer to Question 2

Evidence includes that birds have scales on their legs and feet similar to those on reptiles; birds are egg laying
like many species of reptiles; and birds have feathers, which are modified scales. Both birds and reptiles have
similar soft anatomy, including musculature system, brain, heart, and other organs. Birds and reptiles show
many skeletal similarities. Bird-like fossils have been discovered in several countries.