Contour feathers can be uniquely shaped and colored to help members of the same species identify one another.

They can also serve to attract mates, as in the case of a male peacock’s tail feathers.

Contour feathers can provide protective camouflage (can you spot the bittern concealed in the reeds?).

They can also be used to warn rivals, or to provide a streamlined surface during flight.

Click on the next feather in the feature bar to continue.