The remaining skin is relatively thin. The vane is composed of barbs that help to hold the shape of the feather and can be put back into place during preening. Mammals Mammals generally have skin that conforms to the basic structure described previously, with the epidermal layers of the skin being especially thick in areas such as the soles and the palms of the feet, where proection is needed. Other modifications of mammalian skin includes blubber, which is found in many cetaceans and marine mammals. Blubber is a highly thickened subcutaneous fat layer that adds to the insulation of marine mammals and also acts as a food source for the body.
Melanin is red or blackish brown.