ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Feathering

Feathering is like brushing hair. Just like we comb hair to make it look nice and smooth, birds use their feathers to smooth and fluff themselves up. They do this by using a special part of their feathers called the "barbs". The barbs are like tiny little hairs that stick out of the feather. Birds use their beak to hook onto the barbs and pull them apart, then use their feet to shake or fluff them up again.

Feathering is also important for birds when they fly. A bird's feathers are like little flying machines! They help to keep the bird in the air and also help to steer and control the bird's flight. By adjusting the way they hold their wings and the angle of their feathers, birds can change direction and speed while flying.

Overall, feathering is an important part of a bird's life. It helps keep them clean, warm, and dry, and it even helps them fly!
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