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.

The Science of Birds - Learn about the complex structure of feathers and the different ways they’re used by birds.

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.

Jun 6, 2025 · Birds are the only animals that have feathers. Feathers are a unique and complex integumentary structure found only in birds. They serve a variety of functions, including flight, …

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), …