Quail and Their Fancy Feathers

Gambel’s Quail and California Quail are both well known for the comma-shaped tuft of inky black feathers poised atop the crown of their heads. For both species, this decorative “topknot” is formed from six individual feathers that contour together into a single structure. Yet they’re hardly the only quail with a fashionable updo. Though we don’t know exactly why so many quail evolved elaborate headdresses, they may help the birds attract a mate or intimidate competitors.

More info and transcript at BirdNote.org.

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