This is BirdNote. I'm Ariana Rimmel, the managing producer for Bird Note Daily. This week,

we're asking you to support the show by making a donation at birdnote.org. You've probably

heard the expression, light as a feather, but bird feathers aren't just amazingly light. They're also

resilient, something that Bird Note and bird feathers share in common.

Bird feathers get their strength from a clever structure that does more with less.

The central shaft of a bird feather has many thin, flexible barbs that branch off.

Zoom into those barbs, and you'll see that there are lots of tiny barbules that branch off of the barbs.

These barbules have hooks that help neighboring barbs stick together like Velcro.

Though the individual barbs and barbules might be weak on their own,

their interlocking structure makes feathers sturdy and flightworthy.

Bird note is an independent nonprofit that relies on the generosity of its listeners.

Just like how each tiny barbule makes it possible for birds to soar through the air,

our work stays on the air because individual listeners like you donate at

birdnote.org. If you've already donated this week, thank you.

If you haven't, please give now at bergnote.org to keep the stories you love soaring across the airwaves.

I'm Ariana Rimmel.