Question

Which of the following types of feathers are fluffy and aid in trapping air?

1) Down feathers
2) Flight feathers
3) Contour feathers
4) Filoplumes

Answer 1

Down feathers are the fluffy feathers on birds that trap air for insulation, distinct from flight and contour feathers that aid in flying and aerodynamics. The correct option is 1) Down feathers

Step-by-step explanation:

The types of feathers that are fluffy and aid in trapping air are down feathers. These feathers are critical for providing insulation to birds, helping them maintain their body temperature by trapping air next to their skin.

Down feathers have a structure with loose, interlocking barbules that do not interlock as tightly as those in contour feathers, creating air pockets that retain heat.

In comparison, flight feathers are long, stiff, and waterproof, designed primarily for flying by providing lift and reducing drag, while contour feathers create a smooth, aerodynamic surface on a bird's body. Filoplumes are hair-like feathers that are not associated with insulation. The correct option is 1) Down feathers