noun
- Plural of calypter; small scale-like feathers covering the base of the wing in birds, located above and below the main flight feathers.
Usage: ornithology; technical term
Examples
- The ornithologist examined the calypters to identify the bird species.
- Calypters provide insulation and help streamline the wing surface during flight.
- The pattern of calypters varies among different bird families.
- Birdwatchers use the coloration of calypters as a field mark for identification.