Feathers are one of the epidermal growths that form the distinctive outer covering, or plumage, on birds. They are considered the most complex integumentary structures found in vertebrates. Prum, R.O., & Brush, A.H. (March 2003). "Which Came First, the Feather or the Bird?" Scientific American, vol.288, no.3, pp. 84-93 They are among the outstanding characteristics that distinguish the extant Aves from other living groups. Feathers have also been noticed in Theropoda which have been termed feathered dinosaurs. However, there are also some scientists who disagree with the interpretation of feathered dinosaurs Feduccia, A., T. Lingham-Soliar & J.R. Hinchliffe (2005). "Do Feathered Dinosaurs Exist? Testing the Hypothesis on Neontological and Paleontological Evidence" Journal of Morphology, vol.266, pp. 125-166, pointing out instead that birds and some theropods are only convergently similar. Although feathers cover most parts of the body of birds, they arise only from certain well-defined tracts on the skin. They aid in flight, thermal insulation, waterproofing and coloration that helps in communication and protection.

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