What type of clouds are described as feathery and tufted?

The clouds that are described as feathery and tufted are indeed cirrus clouds. These clouds typically appear high in the atmosphere, where the air is cold and dry, and they are composed of ice crystals. Their appearance is often wispy, giving them a delicate, feather-like quality. Cirrus clouds can indicate changes in the weather, often signifying that a warm front is moving in, which is associated with upcoming precipitation.

In contrast, cumulus clouds are fluffy and white with a more cotton-like appearance, stratus clouds are low, gray, and cover the sky like a blanket, and nimbus refers to rain-bearing clouds or those that produce precipitation. Understanding the distinct characteristics of each cloud type helps in interpreting weather patterns and conditions.