Feather tract meaning

A feather tract is a distinct region on a bird's body where feathers grow in a specific pattern.


Feather tract definitions

Word backwards rehtaef tcart
Part of speech "Feather" is a noun and "tract" is a noun.
Syllabic division Fea-ther tract
Plural The plural of feather tract is feather tracts.
Total letters 12
Vogais (2) e,a
Consonants (5) f,t,h,r,c

Feather Tract Overview

A feather tract, also known as pterylae, refers to the specific area on a bird's body where feathers grow. These tracts are well-defined regions that determine the distribution of feathers on a bird. Each feather tract has a unique arrangement of feathers that serve different functions, such as insulation, flight, or display.

Types of Feather Tracts

There are several types of feather tracts on a bird's body, including the apteria, contour feathers, semiplume feathers, filoplume feathers, bristle feathers, and down feathers. Each type of feather tract plays a distinct role in the bird's overall physiology and behavior. For example, contour feathers help with flight and provide insulation, while down feathers offer warmth.

Feather Growth and Molting

Feathers in a feather tract grow from follicles within the skin. Birds undergo molting, a process in which old feathers are shed and new ones grow in their place. This cycle is essential for maintaining the bird's plumage and ensuring that feathers remain in optimal condition for various functions, such as flying, swimming, or mating displays.

Function of Feather Tracts

Feather tracts serve several important functions for birds. They help regulate body temperature by providing insulation, aid in aerodynamics for flight, assist in camouflage for protection from predators, and play a role in social interactions through displays of color or pattern. Additionally, feather tracts can help identify different bird species based on their unique feather arrangements.

Importance of Feather Health

Maintaining healthy feather tracts is crucial for a bird's overall well-being. Feathers that are damaged or improperly cared for can impact a bird's ability to fly, stay warm, and attract mates. Regular preening and grooming help birds keep their feathers in optimal condition, ensuring they can perform essential behaviors for survival.

In conclusion,

Feather tracts are a vital aspect of avian biology, playing a key role in a bird's appearance, behavior, and ecological niche. Understanding the function and importance of feather tracts can provide valuable insights into the lives of birds and the unique adaptations that have evolved for their survival in diverse environments.


Feather tract Examples

  1. The feather tract on the bird's wing was composed of tightly packed feathers.
  2. During molting season, the feather tract on the duck's back looked patchy and uneven.
  3. As a bird preened itself, it carefully arranged each feather in its feather tract.
  4. The feather tract pattern on each species of bird is unique and helps with identification.
  5. A damaged feather tract can affect a bird's ability to fly properly.
  6. The size and shape of a bird's feather tract can vary depending on the species.
  7. In cold climates, birds may have a denser feather tract to keep them warm.
  8. Researchers studied the feather tract of the owl to understand its camouflage abilities.
  9. The feather tract of a peacock is known for its vibrant and iridescent colors.
  10. Bird watchers often use the feather tract as a key identifier when trying to spot different species.


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  • Updated 02/04/2024 - 08:02:59