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Handout
Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Bird Feather Color

For Students 9th - 10th
Yes, birds can see color and this site delves into pigmentation, color abnormalities, and structural colors of birds' feathers.
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Activity
Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Feather Structure

For Students 9th - 10th
This site provides a detailed explanation of the structure of bird feathers. Topics include feather topography, types of feathers, and feathers and flight.
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Graphic
Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Molting

For Students 9th - 10th
Why do birds molt? How many times a year do they molt? When do birds molt? These questions and more are answered on this comprehensive site.
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Graphic
Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Cornell Lab of Ornithology: A Calliope Hummingbird Molts Its Gorget Feathers

For Students 9th - 10th
Striking photos are presented in this colorful site that show the molting stages of the Calliope Hummingbird.
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Handout
Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Bird Feather Plumage Variations

For Students 9th - 10th
Plumage variations can be based on a number of factors. This brief but informative examines single plumage patterns, seasonal variations, and sexual dimorphism.