What is the most defining characteristic separating the kākāpō from Mammalia, concerning body covering?
Answer
Feathers covering the body head to toe
The fundamental biological distinction between the class Aves (birds) and Mammalia lies in the integument. Birds are characterized by feathers, which serve purposes like insulation and display, while mammals are characterized by possessing hair or fur. The kākāpō is entirely covered in feathers, described as having a mossy green and yellow coloration, cementing its avian classification despite its terrestrial habits. Mammals, conversely, possess hair/fur and nurse their young via milk production, traits entirely absent in the kākāpō.
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