Hummingbird feather

Why were dinosaurs covered in a cloak of feathers long before the early bird species Archaeopteryx first attempted flight? Researchers from the University of Bonn and the University of Göttingen attempt to answer precisely that question in their article "Beyond the Rainbow" in the latest issue of the renowned journal Science. The research team postulates that these ancient lizards had a highly developed ability to discern color. Their hypothesis: The evolution of feathers made dinosaurs more…

Photographer Jess Findlay was shooting in the mountains of Costa Rica when he came upon several beautiful fiery-throated hummingbirds. His photos captured

Thoughts on Feathers: Art and Biology

Hummingbird feathers

When I went onto my balcony to water my plants this tiny feather caught my eye. It was stuck on the rusty handle of the lantern. I have never had the pleasure of such a find before. I get hummingbirds every day on my balcony.

close up detail of a Violet tail Syph Hummingbird

If you’ve ever looked closely at a hummingbird’s feathers, you may have noticed the shimmering colors that seem to shift with your point of view. What you’re seeing is a phenomenon scientists call iridescence.

Macro of a male Anna's Hummingbird near the end of his plumage cycle. He has replaced all of his wing, tail, and body feathers, with the exception of his gorget and crown. These oh-so-important badges of masculinity are replaced last, ensuring that the iridescent colors will be at their most vivid at the beginning of the breeding season (late fall). The hot pink and electric purple feathers at the bottom are fresh, while the orange/gold-tipped ones are old and worn. These changes in…

Top side of hummingbird wing close-up. Image found at Facebook