As flight feathers are the most important feathers in birds,for thrust,lifts and swift turns, have a look at the tail feathers of the welcome swallow. I wonder, if the shape that is so different to that of other birds, is what allows them so get up to those high speeds, and perform those sharp turns? You can see, they are not pointy at the ends, but round and turned up. Any thoughts on that? Let me know! M-L
I would also be very interested in discussing shapes and functions of tail feathers in other birds.Why they are the way they are? You know what I mean! Any photos of tails? M-L
M-L
Well, nobody seams to have ANY thoughts on the function of different shapes of tail feathers??
M-L
I'm not sure why the tail feathers of a swallow would be that way but there is probably a reason. One example I find interesting is that owl feathers are comb shaped in order to make there flight noise-less, I think?
Birds tails are mainly for stability in the air and to balance them when they land eg. when a Crested Pigeon lands it flicks its tail up to balance.
The specific shapes would suit the different style of flight and movement of different birds.
Cheers, Owen.
Sorry missed the point!!
The swallow tail is for streamline.
Cheers, Owen.