On average, how many feathers does an ostrich have?
Question #63901. Asked by Aprial.
Last updated Mar 03 2020.
RandMcNally
Answer has 0 votes
RandMcNally
Answer has 0 votes.
"The feathers lack the tiny hooks that lock together the smooth external feathers of flying birds, and so are soft and fluffy and serve as insulation. Common ostriches can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. In much of their habitat, temperatures vary as much as 40 °C (72 °F) between night and day. Their temperature control relies in part on behavioral thermoregulation. For example, they use their wings to cover the naked skin of the upper legs and flanks to conserve heat, or leave these areas bare to release heat. The wings also function as stabilizers to give better maneuverability when running. Tests have shown that the wings are actively involved in rapid braking, turning and zigzag maneuvers.[16] They have 50-60 tail feathers, and their wings have 16 primary, four alular and 20-23 secondary feathers." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Common_ostrich