Bird Glossary

A B C D E F G H I J L M N P R S T U V
Titlesort icon Body
Aigrette

Aigrettes are the long and loose breeding feathers of birds such as herons and egrets that are typically used for courtship displays.

Air Sac

A structure unique to the respiratory system of birds. Air sacs are thin-walled structures...

Airfoil

The airfoil around a bird's wing enables it to create lift due to the difference in airflow over the upper and lower surfaces.

Alula

Three feathers springing from the base of the primaries.

Auriculars

Area around the ear-opening; a circle of feathers surrounding the opening of the ear of...

Auris

The ear; an opening to the ear canal which is covered in feathers and which is located behind and slightly below the eye.

Aves

The taxonomic class for birds. 

Axillary

Ventral area between the body and the wing.