powder down

feather

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Last updated

July 1, 2026

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Powder down feathers are a specialized type of feather found in certain birds, such as herons and parrots. These feathers grow continuously and disintegrate at their tips, forming a fine powder. This powder is believed to help the bird maintain its plumage, similar to the function of the preen gland's secretion in other birds. Unlike typical down feathers, which provide insulation, powder down feathers serve a grooming purpose. The term "powder" itself refers to matter in a finely divided state.123

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ciconiiform
Plumage and coloration
…(two or more pairs) of powder down feathers are especially characteristic of the herons. These feathers break down to produce a fine powder, which is distributed to the plumage with the bill in preening.
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…(two or more pairs) of powder down feathers are especially characteristic of the herons. These feathers break down to produce a fine powder, which is distributed to the plumage with the bill in preening.
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integument
Birds
…disintegrate into a fine scaly powder that becomes distributed over the plumage, providing protection against wetting and giving it a peculiar sheen; accordingly, these specialized down feathers are called powder down.
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…disintegrate into a fine scaly powder that becomes distributed over the plumage, providing protection against wetting and giving it a peculiar sheen; accordingly, these specialized down feathers are called powder down.
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psittaciform
Skin and plumage
Powder downs, which occur in a variety of birds, including some parrots, are specialized feathers, usually found in well-defined patches, that produce a powdery substance used to clean and waterproof the other feathers. They are well developed in cockatoos, in which they occur primarily as…
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Powder downs, which occur in a variety of birds, including some parrots, are specialized feathers, usually found in well-defined patches, that produce a powdery substance used to clean and waterproof the other feathers. They are well developed in cockatoos, in which they occur primarily as…
Read More