Feathers are among the most complex integumentary appendages found in vertebrates and are formed in tiny follicles in the epidermis, or outer skin layer, that produce keratin proteins.

Here, we cover the breadth of feather biology by looking at feathers from a variety of scientific viewpoints including their anatomy, function, development, and evolution.

Unique to birds, feathers apparently evolved from the scales of birds’ reptilian ancestors. The many different types of feathers are variously specialized for insulation, flight, formation of …

Apr 30, 2025 · Feathers are special body coverings that help birds fly and protect them from the weather. Bird feathers are made of keratin, the same stuff in hair and scales.

Throughout the history of life on Earth, only dinosaurs and birds (which are also dinosaurs) have grown feathers. Much more so than our mammalian fur (or hair, if you’re trying to split fur), …

Aug 11, 2009 · The basic answer is they have feathers and also bones that are hollow, making them light and still strong. But there is more to the story of feathers than just flying.

Jul 15, 2025 · This article explores the major types of feathers found in birds and explains how each serves a specific purpose that contributes to a bird’s survival and lifestyle.