Uropygial Gland
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<birdfyi-glossary slug="uropygial-gland"></birdfyi-glossary>Definição
The preen gland near the base of the tail that secretes oil used to waterproof and condition feathers.
Explicação detalhada
The uropygial (or preen) gland secretes a complex mixture of waxes, fatty acids, and alcohols that vary in composition among species. Birds spread the secretion with their bill during preening. In waterfowl it is large and well-developed; a minority of species (ostriches, bustards, some pigeons) lack it entirely and rely on powder-down feathers instead. The gland also contains antimicrobial compounds that suppress feather-degrading bacteria.