Which trait is typical of birds?

Which trait is typical of birds?

• A. Feathers
• B. Fur
• C. Scales
• D. Gills

Answer: (A)

Feathers are the hallmark trait of birds. They’re keratin-based coverings that enable flight with specialized wing and tail feathers, provide insulation to help regulate temperature, and assist with waterproofing and display. Fur is characteristic of mammals, not birds. Scales appear in many animals and birds do have some leg scales, but feathers are the defining feature that identifies birds. Gills are used by fish and some amphibians for breathing underwater; birds instead have lungs with air sacs. So, feathers best capture what’s typical of birds.

Feathers are the hallmark trait of birds. They’re keratin-based coverings that enable flight with specialized wing and tail feathers, provide insulation to help regulate temperature, and assist with waterproofing and display. Fur is characteristic of mammals, not birds. Scales appear in many animals and birds do have some leg scales, but feathers are the defining feature that identifies birds. Gills are used by fish and some amphibians for breathing underwater; birds instead have lungs with air sacs. So, feathers best capture what’s typical of birds.