These wingfeathers cover the 'body' of the wing and the bases of the flight feathers (see picture under 'wing(s)') and are also called 'tectrices'. They can be divided into three sets both on the upper and under surfaces; the greater or major tectrices which are all attached in relation to one of the remiges (and can also be numbered consequently), the minor or median plus lesser rectrices overlapping the former and the marginal wing coverts which in several rows cover the leading edge of the wing and overlap the minor tectrices.

Alternative form for wingcoverts : tectrices.