twc logo banner
Home
About Us
Programs and Services
Wildlife Hotline
Wildlife Rescue & Oil Spill Response
Veterinary Hospital
Wildlife Rehabilitation
Public Education
Conservation
How Can You Help?
News and Events
FAQ
Contact Us
 
    sign up for
e-newsletter
 
  Receive action alerts and news about TWC
via e-mail


 
NAME  
EMAIL ADDRESS
 
Wildlife Hotline

What is a “pin feather”?

Most altricial birds are naked or covered with bits of downy hair when they first hatch. As they grow, feathers begin to emerge through the skin, usually beginning with the wings and back. When the feathers first emerge, they are still contained in what is called the “feather shaft”, so their appearance is more like little pins, tubes, or toothpicks than actual feathers. At this stage, they are referred to as “pin feathers”. As the bird matures, adult feathers emerge from these shafts and eventually the waxy shaft covering is preened away by the bird.

 
 
    urgent  
  Groundhog

What to do if you find a sick, injured, or orphaned wild animal?

    make a donation  

Donate online!

 

* Please provide a shipping address in order to receive a tax receipt.

Secure online donations provided by:
Acceptance Mark

Click here for more information, or to learn how to donate via mail or by phone

Charitable Registration Number:
14114 6290 RR0001

 
  bottom nav