flightfjädrarna

Flight feathers, known scientifically as remiges and rectrices, are specialized feathers found on the wings and tail of birds that are essential for flight. Remiges, the primary and secondary flight feathers of the wings, provide lift and thrust. Primary remiges are located at the wingtip and generate thrust, while secondary remiges, closer to the body, generate lift. Rectrices, the tail feathers, assist in steering, braking, and maintaining balance during flight, as well as in display.

These feathers are structurally unique, featuring a strong, stiff central shaft (rachis) and a broad, asymmetrical vane. The vane is composed of interlocking barbs and barbules, creating a smooth, aerodynamic surface that is crucial for efficient flight. The arrangement and overlap of flight feathers create an airfoil shape on the wing, allowing air to flow faster over the top surface than the bottom, generating the lift needed for a bird to fly. Molting is a gradual process where old, worn flight feathers are replaced by new ones, ensuring the bird maintains its ability to fly. The pattern and color of flight feathers can also play a role in species identification and sexual display.