What is the difference between a bird's feathers and its down?
person
brightness_auto
2 Answers
Bird feathers are outer coverings that are rigid and flat with a shaft and barbs for insulation, protection, and flight. Down is the softer, fluffy undercoat that provides insulation and warmth to the bird's body. Down feathers do not have a shaft or barbs, and they are lighter and fluffier than regular feathers.
The difference between a bird's feathers and its down is the structure and purpose. Feathers are the outer layer of a bird's body and are made of a hard, protective material called keratin. They are designed to help the bird fly and keep it warm. Down is a layer of soft, fluffy feathers located beneath the bird's outer layer of feathers. It helps insulate the bird and keep it warm in cold weather.