by Matt Walker
Editor, Earth News
Some birds have silver wings, created by a previously unknown structure in their feathers, scientists have discovered.
A delicate arrangement of barbules creates a silver sheen upon otherwise dark feathers.
The effect is different to the usual iridescence that adds colour to the plumage of many birds.
Pelicans, ducks, vultures and cranes all possess these silver wings, which might indicate a bird's fitness.
