According to the Cornell Lab Bird Academy, the alula is a group of two to six feathers projecting from the phalanx of the bird’s first finger (its thumb) at the bend of the wing. It reduces turbulence by allowing fine control of airflow over the wing. The alula is circled on the Mallard below.
Mallard, Alan D. Wilson, Wikimedia
More in local bird and nature news:
What route are you taking for Birdathon?Birdathon team registration due April 14. Start thinking about which of your friends and family to recruit.
Learn how to identify backyard birds! If you missed this recent program, you can still watch the video here.
Mark your calendars for these upcoming native plant sales. The birds will thank you.
Let’s play Wingspan! Join us Thursday, April 3 from 6-8pm at the Reston office for snacks and Wingspan. Please bring a set if you have one! Sign up here.
Birdwalk Report: We had a lovely group of 30 people join us at Dyke Marsh over the weekend, including 6 newcomers! Highlights included seeing a Barred Owl, Pileated Woodpecker, Ospreys, several eagles and a lone Ruddy Duck female. See some photos from the walk here. (Thank you Kent!) Check out some more photos of the participants on our instagram (Thank you Rob!)
Take the Lights Out Pledge Please turn off exterior lights between 11pm-6am during Spring Migration.
