Powder Down on a Window, Likely Left Behind by a Dove
Macro, detailed imprint on our window. I don’t believe the dove was injured when it collided.
What is left behind is called powder down, which is a dry, talc-like lubricant present at the base of the bird's feathers. Down feathers grow on geese, ducks, swans, herons, pigeons, doves, etc. They help waterproof the feathers and mix with waxy preening oil from glands at the base of the tail.
Down feathers aren't molted. Instead, they grow continuously and crumble over time to become powder down. They have a secondary use for the integrity of the longer feathers!
Powder Down on a Window, Likely Left Behind by a Dove
Macro, detailed imprint on our window. I don’t believe the dove was injured when it collided.
What is left behind is called powder down, which is a dry, talc-like lubricant present at the base of the bird's feathers. Down feathers grow on geese, ducks, swans, herons, pigeons, doves, etc. They help waterproof the feathers and mix with waxy preening oil from glands at the base of the tail.
Down feathers aren't molted. Instead, they grow continuously and crumble over time to become powder down. They have a secondary use for the integrity of the longer feathers!