Plumage is the term used to describe the FEATHERS of a bird. It is composed of four parts: DOWN, WING, FEATHER, and NUPTIAL FEATHERS. DOWN is the soft, fluffy FEATHERS that are found closest to the skin of a bird and provide insulation. WING FEATHERS are the larger FEATHERS that are found on the wings of a bird and help it fly. FEATHERS are the smaller FEATHERS that cover the body of a bird and provide protection from the elements. NUPTIAL FEATHERS are the brightly colored FEATHERS that are used in courtship displays. All of these FEATHERS together make up the plumage of a bird.