Mighty Feathers: UV Birds

UV BIRDS: Some male birds have UV reflecting patches of feathers that are different than a female’s feathers.

UV BIRDS: For some UV-seeing birds, the preening gland is affected that gives off oil for bird feathers. In stronger and healthier males it has less UV reflecting blockers. Therefore, stronger birds reflect more UV light than weaker ones. This is an excellent way for females to be able to find an ideal mate and have healthier chicks.

UV BIRDS: Feathers that reflect UV light do so because of incredibly tiny, layered mirror barbs. These reflect UV light.

UV BIRDS: The screening gland that gives off oil for bird feathers is more concentrated in stronger and healthier in males. They have less UV reflecting blockers in their oils. Therefore, stronger birds reflect more UV light than weaker ones. This is an excellent way for females to be able to find an ideal mate, so as to have healthier chicks.

UV BIRDS: Some baby birds have a lining around their mouths that reflects UV light! It’s kind of like UV lipstick!  This enables mom and dad birds to be able to see their mouths clearly to see who hasn’t been fed.