Plumage is all the feathers covering a bird's body. Just as you might describe someone's outfit or hairstyle, plumage describes the complete coat of feathers that gives each bird species its distinctive look.

A peacock's spectacular plumage features iridescent blue-green feathers and that famous fan-shaped tail covered in eye-spots. A cardinal's bright red plumage makes it easy to spot against winter snow, while a sparrow's brown plumage helps it blend into bushes and branches. Some birds, like mallard ducks, have different plumage depending on whether they're male or female: the male (or drake) shows off a glossy green head and a white collar, while the female has mottled brown plumage that camouflages her while she sits on her nest.

Birds use their plumage for multiple purposes. Feathers provide insulation in cold weather, enable flight, and help birds attract mates or warn away rivals. Many birds molt (shed and regrow their feathers) once or twice a year, which means their plumage can change with the seasons. The same bird might have drab plumage in winter and brilliant colors in spring when it's time to find a mate.