26 Unlocked barbs The separate barbs in this peacock feather trap a layer of air for insulation. Feathers are designed not only for flight. Some are used to insulate the bird’s body; others are used for camouflage, to incubate the eggs, or to attract a mate. These tasks are performed by down feathers, body feathers, and the feathers in the tail. Body feathers Body feathers come in a variety of colours, shapes, and sizes. Some are used just to cover the bird’s body, while others play a key role in courtship and display. Thermal cladding Small down feathers are packed around the body to form a fur-like mat. Incubation Many birds, like the teal, use breast feathers to keep their eggs warm. Dual function Many feathers also have a mass of down where they are attached to the body. These help in camouflage and also keep the bird warm. Red lory feathers African grey parrot feathers Macaw feathers Tropical brilliance Many tropical birds have brightly coloured feathers that may help them to identify and communicate with their own kind. Courtship plumes These hanging feathers adorn the neck of the male wild turkey. Each feather is divided into a pair of plumes. Shortened barbs Leafy camouflage The dull green tips of the green woodpecker’s feathers help to camouflage it in grassy fields. Flying heavyweight This feather is from a bustard – one of the heaviest flying birds. Down feathers Down feathers are found next to the bird’s skin. Their barbs do not lock together, but spread out to form a soft mass. Quill Barb Patterns on the surface In many birds, only the exposed tips of the feathers show distinctive markings. A pheasant’s cape The neck feathers of the male golden pheasant form a brilliant black and gold cape.