Semiplume feather, 2010 - Nicholas Judson

Semiplume feather, 2010

I have had the opportunity to do some illustrations for the recently published book by Thor Hanson: "Feathers: the evolution of a natural miracle." This is the illustration of a semiplume feather.

Previous - Next
Original pencil on paper drawing not available for purchase.

"Semiplume Semiplumes fill the space in form and function between contour feathers and down. They have a distinct rachis, but their plumy barbs do not interlock to form a closed vane. They fill out the body plumage and add insulation, and in some cases the visible tips provide color. Semiplumes can also be modified for display. The Great Egret's elegant breeding plumes, once so desirable for ladies' hats, are simply elongated semiplumes."