Tawny owl feather detail, SEM

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Tawny owl feather detail, SEM

Tawny owl (Strix aluco) feather detail, scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Owls have the benefit of silent flight due to the filamentous extensions of their anterior barbules on their feathers. Most other birds including raptors do not have this feather structure. This gives the owl an added advantage when swooping on its unsuspecting prey. Magnification x161 at 10cm wide

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 9195713

© POWER AND SYRED/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Barb Barbules Bird Of Prey Feather Feathers Ornithology Raptor Strix Aluco Tawny Owl Feather Detail

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate detail of a Tawny owl feather, captured using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The image reveals the remarkable structure that sets owls apart from other birds. Owls possess filamentous extensions on their anterior barbules, allowing them to achieve silent flight - a unique advantage in the animal kingdom. The magnified view at 161 times its original size provides an up-close look at this feather's design. Its fine barbs and delicate barbules create a complex network that enables noiseless movement through the air. Unlike most raptors and birds of prey, which lack this specialized feature, owls can swoop down on their unsuspecting prey without making any sound. The Tawny owl (Strix aluco) is known for its exceptional hunting skills and nocturnal habits. This SEM photograph not only highlights the beauty of this bird's plumage but also emphasizes its evolutionary adaptation for stealthy flights. Power and Syred have masterfully captured this stunning image, showcasing their expertise in scientific photography. Whether you are an ornithology enthusiast or simply appreciate nature's wonders, this print offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the world of feathers and avian adaptations.

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