Szárnyfedkre

Szárnyfedkre is a term of Hungarian origin that translates to "wing cover" or "covert." In ornithology, it refers to the feathers that cover the base of the flight feathers on a bird's wing. These feathers are typically smaller and less structured than the primary and secondary flight feathers themselves. They play a role in streamlining the wing's surface and can contribute to the overall coloration and patterns of the bird.

The specific appearance and arrangement of szárnyfedkre vary significantly between different bird species. In some birds, they are inconspicuous and blend in with the rest of the wing plumage. In others, they can be brightly colored or patterned, contributing to species recognition, courtship displays, or camouflage. The upper wing coverts are known as the greater coverts, median coverts, and lesser coverts, arranged from the wingtip towards the body. Underneath, there are also underwing coverts. These feathers, along with the remiges (flight feathers) and rectrices (tail feathers), form the intricate plumage that enables avian flight and display. Their presence and form are important characteristics used in bird identification and classification.