Flight in birds is supported by the presence of wing feathers known as remiges. Particularly, the asymmetrically shaped primary feathers (Remiges primarii) generate the necessary lift that allows a bird to take off. These feathers are supplemented with keratinous microstructures called hooklets. The interlocking ability with the opposing posterior barbules creates a continuous surface referred to as the feather’s vane. Using scanning electron microscopy of individual barbs, this study provides a detailed characterization of hooklet distribution within a primary wing feather of the Common Wood Pigeon (Columba palumbus; Columbidae). The results of this study reveal gradients in the distribution of hooklets within the feather vane that are discussed in the context of the physical forces to which a feather is exposed to during flight. Furthermore, the study reveals a greater variation in the number of hooklets per barbule than previously described, indicating that the sole use of the number of hooklets per barbule as a potential taxonomic marker is very limited.
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