The Integument: The Largest Organ System of Birds

摘要

Avian skin and the feathers it supports together form an extraordinarily specialized organ. Certainly the largest organ system in the bird, the unique structure and function of the skin and feathers provide not only flight capability but also play a key role in thermoregulation, sensory function, seasonal breeding, even eating. This discussion will focus on the specific adaptations of psittacine species.