Interpopulation variation in contour feather structure is environmentally determined in great tits.

The plumage of birds is important for flying, insulation and social communication. Contour feathers cover most of the avian body and among other functions they provide a critical insulation layer against heat loss. Feather structure and composition are known to vary among individuals, which in turn...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Juli Broggi, Anna Gamero, Esa Hohtola, Markku Orell, Jan-Åke Nilsson
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Public Library of Science (PLoS) 2011-01-01
Series:PLoS ONE
Online Access:http://europepmc.org/articles/PMC3176289?pdf=render