Animals4–5 · 6–8
The Duck and Its Waterproof Feathers
A duck's feathers work like a raincoat… water rolls right off!
Why?
Near a duck’s tail is a small gland that makes oil. The duck picks up the oil with its beak and spreads it over its feathers, so water turns into little drops that roll right off.
Duck feathers also fit tightly together like a zipper, so water can’t get in. Underneath, soft fluffy feathers keep the duck warm.
Try it
Color half of a sheet of paper with crayons 🖍️, pressing hard. Then drip some water on both halves… on which half do the drops stay round and roll off, like water on a duck's feathers?
Ask Mum & Dad
What do we wear when it rains so we don't get wet?