The word "tertials" refers to the secondary flight feathers of a bird's wing, and is pronounced /ˈtɜːrʃəlz/. The IPA phonetic transcription breaks down the word's pronunciation as follows: the "t" is pronounced as a voiceless alveolar stop, the "e" and "r" are both pronounced as a mid-central vowel and a voiced alveolar liquid, respectively, the "tia" is pronounced as a voiced palato-alveolar affricate, the "l" is a voiced alveolar lateral approximant, and the "s" is a voiceless alveolar fricative sound.
Tertials refers to the primary flight feathers located at the outer edge of a bird's wing. These feathers are the second largest feathers on a bird's wing, following the primary feathers. Tertials have great significance in terms of the bird's flight capabilities, as they contribute greatly to the stability and maneuverability during flight.
Tertials are typically positioned closest to the bird's body just above the secondary feathers. They are known for their durability, as they are subjected to a significant amount of stress and strain during flight. These feathers have a rigid structure, which allows them to withstand the forces exerted on them during wingbeats.
The shape and arrangement of tertials play a vital role in a bird's aerodynamics. They are responsible for controlling the airflow over the bird's wings, contributing to lift and minimizing turbulence. This allows birds to maintain balance and adjust their flight paths more easily.
In addition to their flight-related functions, tertials also serve as an important aspect of avian courtship displays. In some bird species, males may use tertials to attract potential mates by displaying them in an impressive and rhythmic manner.
Overall, tertials play a crucial role in a bird's flight dynamics and courtship rituals, showcasing their evolutionarily developed adaptations to maximize their survival and reproductive success.
The third series of feathers in the wings of birds, being large feathers growing near the junction of the wing with the body.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "tertials" has its etymology traced back to the Latin word "tertialis", which means "of the third". It is derived from the Latin word "tertius", meaning "third". In ornithology, the term "tertials" refers to the primary feathers on the wings of a bird, specifically the outermost feathers attached to the arm of the wing.