What term describes the feathers on a bird's wings and tail that aid in flight?

The term that describes the feathers on a bird's wings and tail that are specifically adapted to aid in flight is "flight feathers." These feathers, also known as remiges (found on the wings) and rectrices (found on the tail), are essential for a bird's aerodynamics and maneuverability.

Flight feathers are long and stiff, providing the necessary lift and thrust when a bird flaps its wings. They also play a crucial role in steering and balance during flight, allowing birds to perform complex movements in the air. The structure and arrangement of flight feathers are specially adapted to withstand the forces of flight, making them different from other types of feathers.

In contrast, contour feathers primarily cover a bird’s body and shape its profile, down feathers provide insulation and warmth without contributing significantly to flight, and streamers, while sometimes associated with tail feathers, do not specifically describe the primary flight feathers aiding in flying capabilities. Understanding the specific roles of different types of feathers is crucial for someone studying falconry and avian biology.