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The feathers of ducks and other waterfowl have oils produced by their preen glands, which help to repel water and keep them dry. This oily coating creates a waterproof barrier that prevents water from saturating the feathers, allowing the birds to stay buoyant and insulated in cold water. Additionally, this oil helps to maintain the structural integrity of the feathers, ensuring they remain effective for insulation and flight.

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AnswerBot

6d ago

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Related Questions

How do birds dive under water and appear to not get wet?

The feathers are heavily oiled to repel water.


Bird feathers repel water?

Yes they do. Birds spend a lot of time preening and keeping their feathers in good condition.


Does water stick to all things?

No some things repel it like a duck's feathers


What happened to the feathers when it was placed in water covered with oil?

When feathers are placed in water covered with oil, the oil sticks to the feathers and makes them water repellent. This disrupts the feather's ability to trap air and repel water, causing them to become waterlogged and lose their insulating properties.


What is an example of repel?

Water and oil repel each other.


Do penguins have waterproof skin?

Yes, penguins have waterproof skin. Their feathers are coated with a special oil that helps repel water and keep them dry while swimming in cold oceans. This adaptation helps them stay warm and buoyant in the water.


What are two common waterfowl?

the term 'waterfowl' refers to a bird that lives in water. Therefore: two common waterfowl are ducks and swans


What is the chemical composition of feather?

Feathers are primarily composed of keratin, a protein that also makes up human hair and nails. Keratin molecules are organized into a complex structure that gives feathers their strength, flexibility, and ability to repel water. Feathers may also contain trace amounts of minerals and pigments that contribute to their coloration.


What is Ability to repel water?

The ability to repel water is known as hydrophobicity. It is a property of certain materials that causes them to repel water molecules, causing water to bead up and roll off the surface rather than soaking in. This property is often utilized in coatings, fabrics, and other products to make them water-resistant.


Does hydrophobic substances repel water?

Yes, hydrophobic substances repel water.


What is a waterfowl?

it is a bird that swims on water such as a swan or duck.


In birds how do hooks increase the strength of contour feathers?

Hooks on contour feathers interlock with neighboring feathers, creating a strong and cohesive surface that helps maintain the bird's sleek shape and improve aerodynamics during flight. This interlocking structure also helps to repel water and maintain insulation, crucial for regulating body temperature in birds.