This was inadvertently posted last Tuesday for a few hours. Trying again…
Here’s a different type of teaser for you. What are those feathers protruding from the middle of this banded Peregrine Falcon’s wings called?
Yep, he’s the one we photographed eight days ago at Harrier Meadow. (See earlier post.)
The alulla. At low speeds (such as during take-off & landing), birds can maintain smooth air flow over the wing (and, therefore, maintain lift) by using the alula (also called the bastard wing). The alula is formed by feathers (usually 3 or 4) attached to the first digit.
http://people.eku.edu/ritchisong/RITCHISO/554notes2.html
Ummm is that 06BC- our GIRL?! I hope I get to see her again!