Did you know a bird’s bill has accessories? Rictal bristles are important for many bird species, but what are they, exactly, what do they do, and which birds have them?

Rictal Bristles Definition

(noun) Narrow, stiff, hair-like feathers at the base of a bird’s bill. These feathers point out from the bird’s face, and some species have similar feathers near the eyes as well. The overall number, length, and orientation of the feathers varies on different birds.

While the purpose of rictal bristles is not well studied, they are believed to help provide protection against insects, dust, or other debris, particularly among birds that bore into wood or dig deep into soil or sand while foraging. It is also possible that rictal bristles have a sensory function similar to whiskers. These feathers serve no flight functions and do not help with insulation or waterproofing.

Rictal bristle feathers are typically stronger and sturdier than the rest of a bird’s plumage, almost with a wire-like shape and texture. This helps them resist wear and damage from contact with different surfaces.

Not all birds have rictal bristles, but they have been noted in a wide variety of bird families. Many woodpeckers, flycatchers, and thrashers have rictal bristles, as well as kiwis.

Pronunciation

RIHK-tull BRISS-ells – Rhymes with pick (lick, stick, tick)-full (cull, dull, wool) miss (kiss, diss, hiss)-uhls (really not a lot of options for this one!)