Long, stiff, specialized feathers that have sensory and protective functions. They have a stiff, tapered rachis with a few basal barbs. Semibristles have more side branches. Usually found on the head (near mouth and eyes), also on toes of some owls. Most aerial insect eating birds have bristles and semi-bristles around their mouths, on woodpeckers ... Found on http://www.sialis.org/glossary.htm