Crest (feathers) facts for kids
A crest is a special group of feathers found on top of the head of some birds. You might also hear it called a crown. These feathers can often move up and down. This depends on the type of bird. For example, cockatoos and the hoopoe can raise or lower their crests. But the feathers on the head of a grey crowned crane always stay up.
Birds use their crests for many reasons. They are often used for showing off or for display. Birds with crests use them to talk to other birds. They are also an important part of their courtship rituals. This is how birds attract a mate. Birds also raise their crests when they are scared or ready to fight. This makes them look bigger than they really are. It can help scare away enemies.
Birds with Crests
Some of the most famous birds with crests are cockatoos and their smaller relatives, cockatiels. These birds belong to the parrot family. You can find them in places like Australia and the Philippines.
Cockatoos and Cockatiels
Cockatoos and cockatiels can move their crests up or down whenever they want. They use their crests to communicate with other birds of their kind. For example, a raised crest might mean they are excited or curious. A flattened crest might mean they are relaxed.
They also use their crests for defense. If another animal gets too close, a cockatoo might suddenly raise its crest. This makes the bird look much larger and more threatening. This can often scare away the other animal.
Related pages
Images for kids
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The grey crowned crane - an example of a crested bird species
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A restoration of the dinosaur Anchiornis, showing the crest of feathers on its head
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Citron-crested cockatoo crest feathers (on 1 cm grid)
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Umbrella cockatoo raising its crest
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Female galah raising its crest
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Little egret in Winter
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Little egret in Summer
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Great crested grebe in Winter
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Great crested grebe in Summer
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See also
In Spanish: Penacho para niños
