uropygial gland

noun

, Ornithology.

1. a gland opening on the back at the base of the tail in most birds that secretes an oily fluid used by the bird in preening its feathers.

uropygial gland

noun

1. a gland, situated at the base of the tail in most birds, that secretes oil used in preening

Word History and Origins

Origin of uropygial gland¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

Among the substances produced by birds are the secretions of the uropygial gland, which may be pigmented orange, red or yellow.

From US News

They also found evidence that the birds transferred carotenoids from their uropygial gland to their feathers by rubbing their head on their neck, breast and back feathers.

From US News

They then looked for the pigments that may tinge the plumage both in the secretions of the uropygial gland and on the surface of feathers.

From US News