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Dennis Kunkel's Microscopic World 2001 Calendar

Hummingbird feathers are incredibly strong and light horny structures that form the plumage of hummingbirds. The hollow feather shafts support tightly hooked barbs and barbules. Pull feather barbules against their grain and the hooks separate to leave gaps in the feather; smooth them and the feather is once again streamlined for flight. Hummingbirds beat their wings 38 to 78 times a second while flying. Feathers are important for aerodynamics, but they have other important functions as well, such as insulating birds from harsh temperatures and waterproofing them from rain. Some hummingbirds can migrate up to 2500 miles every spring and autumn. The ruby-throated hummingbird makes a 500-mile migration from North America to South America each year.