Feathers covering the body of a newly hatched bird are

Options

A. Coverts
B. Contours
C. Down Feathers
D. Filoplumes

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks about the type of feathers that cover the body of a newly hatched bird.

2. **Identifying the Options**: The options provided are:
- A. Coverts
- B. Contours
- C. Down feathers
- D. Filoplumes

3. **Analyzing Each Option**:
- **Coverts**: These are small feathers found on the wings and tails of birds. They fill the gaps between larger quill feathers but are not the primary feathers covering a newly hatched bird.
- **Contours**: These feathers cover the body of adult birds and give them their shape. However, they are not present on newly hatched birds.
- **Down Feathers**: These are soft, fluffy feathers that cover the bodies of newly hatched birds. They provide insulation and are found beneath the contour feathers in adult birds.
- **Filoplumes**: These are very small, hair-like feathers that occur beneath the contour feathers. They are not the primary covering for newly hatched birds.

4. **Choosing the Correct Answer**: Based on the analysis, the correct answer is **C. Down feathers**. These feathers are specifically designed to cover and insulate newly hatched birds.

5. **Conclusion**: The feathers covering the body of a newly hatched bird are called down feathers.

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