Watercolor scarlet ibis | Painted Wing

Friday Feather Fact: Have you ever noticed that many birds, regardless of their overall color, have black wings or wingtips? There’s a good reason! Dark feathers contain high concentrations of melanin pigments. Melanins don’t just add color - they also strengthen feathers and make them more resistant to wear and tear. Since flight feathers are more susceptible to damage, having stronger (and darker) wingtips is essential for survival. | Sylvan Heights Bird Park

1.9K views · 76 reactions | Scarlet Ibis in the Tropical Americas Free Flight Aviary ❤️ #tropicalamerica #gladysporterzoo | Gladys Porter Zoo | Facebook