1. small feathers that cover the bases of the flight feathers on a bird’s wing and tail
Usage: ornithology
2. sheltered or hidden places that provide cover for wildlife
Usage: hunting; wildlife management

Examples

• The bird’s wing coverts were a beautiful shade of brown.
• Ornithologists examine the coverts to help identify different species.
• The hunter waited quietly near the coverts where deer often hide.
• Dense coverts provide essential nesting sites for many birds.
• Wildlife managers planted shrubs to create better coverts for small game.
• The pheasant disappeared quickly into the thick coverts.
• Biologists studied how animals use natural coverts for protection.