Plumage

Description

The feathery covering on a bird. Feathers provide protection, insulation, water repellancy, and in some instances, camouflage. The plumage of male birds is typically brighter and more colorful than that of females. Through molting, feathers are lost and replaced about once a year.

Sources Checked for Data in Record

• The American Heritage Dictionary or Encarta, via Microsoft Bookshelf 98, Microsoft Corp., 1998

• Encyclopedia Britannica, http://www.britannica.com Comment: "plumage." Encyclopædia Britannica. 2005. Encyclopædia Britannica Premium Service 3 Feb. 2005 .