Feathers grow only in special patches or tracts, with intervening featherless spaces.
- Feather coloring is the result of a combination of pigments and light
refraction.
- Lubrication of feathers decreases wear and is the function of the
preening gland and powder down. (Powder down comes from a unique downy feather that grows
continuously. The tips constantly disintegrate into a fine, talc-like powder. This powder
helps waterproof, lubricate and preserve feathers. Powder down is obviously displayed in
cockatiels and African Grey parrots.)
- The preening gland at the base of the tail secretes an oil which the
bird spreads with its beak onto its feathers and claws. In the pet bird class, some of the
psittacines lack a preening gland.
- The feather follicle normally begins to grow a new feather as soon as
the quill of the old feather is removed. Within two weeks, the feather is one-fourth to
one inch long.
- A bird's feathers must be replaced before they become worn out. The
annual molt, replacing old feathers with new ones, is a dangerous time in a bird's life,
since the expenditure of energy to replace its feathers leaves the bird vulnerable to
illness.
- Complete feather care cannot be accomplished unless the bird is
healthy both mentally and physically. Mental health demands companionship, a pleasant
environment and security from stress. Physical health is related to a balanced diet, good
sanitation and housing, and control of diseases.
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