What are secondary feathers?

Secondary feathers are actually the feathers located on the wing that are situated towards the body of the bird, specifically on the upper surface of the wing. They are attached to the ulna bone and play a critical role in flight by aiding in lift and maneuverability. Understanding this anatomy is essential for falconers, as it allows them to recognize how varying feather types contribute to a bird's flying capabilities.

The most distal feathers, or the feathers farther away from the bird's body towards the tips of the wings, are known as primary feathers. These feathers are primarily responsible for thrust during flight. The feathers responsible for gliding are more intricately related to overall wing structure and don’t exclusively pertain to secondary feathers. Thus, knowing the exact positioning and function of secondary feathers is vital for proper falconry practices.