Feathers are an evolutionary marvel: aerodynamic, insulating,
beguiling. They date back more than 100 million years. Yet their
story has never been fully told. In Feathers , biologist Thor
Hanson details a sweeping natural history, as feathers have been
used to fly, protect, attract, and adorn through time and place.
Applying the research of paleontologists, ornithologists,
biologists, engineers, and even art historians, Hanson asks: What
are feathers? How did they evolve? What do they mean to us?
Engineers call feathers the most efficient insulating material ever
discovered, and they are at the root of biology's most enduring
debate. They silence the flight of owls and keep penguins dry below
the ice. They have decorated queens, jesters, and priests. And they
have inked documents from the Constitution to the novels of Jane
Austen. Feathers is a captivating and beautiful exploration of this
most enchanting object.
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Review This Product
Feathers, feathers, everywhere.
Wed, 27 Feb 2013 | Review
by: Tanya K.
This is an excellent book.
Thor Hanson discusses everything to do with feathers - first fossil feathers found, various theories on feather and flight evolution, feather structures, uses of feathers for temperature regulation, flight, mating displays, waterproofing, fashion, fly-fishing "flies", pillows, quill pens. Not overly technical and very enjoyable. Includes black and white illustrations.
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