Scales and Plumage
Scales are located on the legs and feet.
The plumage is always for altered shape.
Function: body cooling and heating for maintenance of
body temperature, protects against abrasions and bruises
when birds are in groups or lying on the ground.
Plumage shape is particularly important for cooling since
birds lack sweat glands.
Although it is not common for production birds to fly,
plumage type and form is an important determinant in
flight for aerial species.