Crest (bird)

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The crest is a prominent feathered feature exhibited by several bird and dinosaur species on their heads. Generally used for display purposes, crests can be fixed or erectile, depending on the species. For example, Cockatoos and cockatiels possess crests which may be raised or lowered at will. Their crests are used to communicate with fellow members of their species or as a form of defence to frighen away other species that approach too closely.

The crest is made up of semiplume feathers: a long rachis with barbs on either side. It is a plumolacious feather meaning that it is soft and bendable. In birds these semiplumes are common among head, neck and upper back and may be used for buyancy and sensing vibrations.