Feather

From Conservapedia - Reading time: 1 min

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Feathers are growths appearing on the skin and make the plumage of many birds. Feathers develop from tiny projections of tissue nourished by blood vessels and embedded in follicles in the epidermis. Once a feather reaches maturity, the blood supply for it is discontinued and the central shaft becomes hollow. The thyroid gland releases secretions to stimulate the growth of new feathers when they are lost.