Birds with crowns are a fascinating part of the avian world. While most birds have feathers on their heads, some unique species grow specialized feathers that resemble crowns or crests. These elaborate plumage displays play an important role in the birds’ social interactions and identification. But what exactly are birds with crowns called? The answer depends on the type of bird and its anatomical characteristics. By exploring some key examples, we can better understand the diversity of crowned birds and the terminology used to describe them.
Key Examples of Crowned Birds
Here are some of the most prominent bird groups that exhibit crowned heads:
Cockatoos
Cockatoos are a family of parrots native to Australia and the islands of the south and west Pacific. Many cockatoo species have erectile crests on their heads that can raise or lower according to the bird’s mood. When standing tall, these crests resemble a crown or headdress. Some examples include the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, Yellow-crested Cockatoo, and Gang-gang Cockatoo. The cockatoo’s intricate crown sets it apart from other birds.
Cranes
Cranes are large, long-legged birds that inhabit wetland areas around the world. Several crane species have crowns of specialized feathers. The Sarus Crane of Asia has a red forehead and upper neck bald spot that becomes brighter during breeding season. The Sandhill Crane of North America has a distinctive red forehead patch above its white cheek stripe. These colorful crowns likely play a role in courtship displays and territorial defense.
Birds of Paradise
Native to New Guinea and nearby islands, birds of paradise are named for their dramatic and elaborate plumage. Males of many species have distinctive head crests that stand out boldly during mating rituals. The King of Saxony bird of paradise has a crown of slender, aerodynamic feathers that can fan out two feet above its head. Other crowned birds of paradise include the Twelve-wired Bird of Paradise and Wilson’s Bird of Paradise. The extravagant crowns help attract mates.
Pigeons and Doves
While most pigeons and doves have simple heads, some feature modified crown feathers. The Nicobar Pigeon has a metallic blue-green crest that fans backwards from its forecrown. The Green-naped Pheasant Pigeon has a bushy two-tone green crown. And the Crested Wood Partridge of Africa sports a neat spiky crest that looks carved from stone. These pigeon and dove crowns are relatively modest compared to those of birds of paradise, but still add flair.
What Are Crowned Birds Called?
Now that we’ve highlighted some key examples, what terminology is used for birds with crowns? There are a few main descriptive terms:
Crested
The term “crested” refers to a bird with an erectile crown of feathers on its head. The cockatoo’s crest and the Crested Wood Partridge showcase this trait. When the crest is lifted, it looks like a crown or headdress adorning the bird’s head. “Crested” is used broadly across many bird families.
Crowned
“Crowned” also describes a distinctive cluster of feathers atop the head. The common names of some crowned birds directly reference this trait, like the Crowned Pigeon, Crowned Crane, and Crowned Eagle. However, “crowned” is a more general and variable term than “crested.” The crest is a specific anatomical structure; a crown may refer to any prominent head feathers.
Tufted
The term “tufted” refers to a small, soft cluster of feathers forming a crown-like tuft. The Tufted Titmouse got its name from the spiky, mouse-like crest perched between its eyes. Other tufted birds include the Black-crested Titmouse and the Whiskered Treeswift. The tuft resembles a miniature, fuzzy crown marking the bird’s head.
Topknot
Some birds sport a “topknot” of feathers sprouting from the top of the head in a gathered, bun-like shape. Jays and waxwings exhibit this trademark plume. The Blue Jay has a blue-black topknot while the Bohemian Waxwing has a tawny-gray topknot. Similar to a ponytail or top bun in human hair, this feather bunch appears like informal headwear.
Other Descriptors
More generalized terms can also indicate a bird’s crowned head, including:
– Head plumes / plumes
– Head feathers
– Crown feathers
– Erectile head feathers
– Modified head feathers
– Ornamental head feathers
– Distinctive head feathers
Overall, “crested” is the most precise and scientific term for birds with crowns. But in common names and descriptions, various vocabulary like “crowned,” “tufted,” and “topknot” are used. The terminology focuses on modifying head feathers that are visually striking and aid in display and mating behaviors.
The Symbolism and Function of Avian Crowns
What purpose do ornate crowns serve for birds beyond beauty? Here are some of their key biological functions and symbolic associations:
Communication and Display
Bright, bold crowns help birds communicate and find mates. By fanning and exposing their specialized head feathers, birds can signal their fitness. The crowns also assist with species and gender recognition. Anything from erected cockatoo crests to umbrellalike birds of paradise plumes enables effective display.
Status and Dominance
Crowns may indicate social status and dominance. Greater Bird of Paradise males with bigger, darker crowns have higher status than birds with smaller, paler plumes. Having a lush, prominent crown demonstrates maturity and virility. The elaborate feathers are like leadership regalia.
Mood Signaling
Since some crests are erectile, birds can alter their headwear to signal mood. Angry or excited cockatoos will raise their crests fully upright. Relaxed or bored cockatoos will lower their crests. The movable feathers act like visual emoticons.
Identification
The unique shape and color of crests assists with species recognition, similar to human hairstyles. A Sulphur-crested Cockatoo is instantly identifiable by its bold yellow headwear. Even within bird families, the crest offers quick identification.
Regal Associations
There’s a reason crowned birds are named kingfishers and Birds of Paradise. Their ornate head plumes evoke associations with human royalty and regalia. Crowns, scepters, and capes imply noble status. Birds seem to “dress up” with luxurious feather crests.
Beauty and Allure
Of course, crowns also serve an aesthetic purpose. Their beauty captures human imagination and adds majesty to the birds. The crowned appearance further differentiates birds from other animals. Visually, the crowns speak to avian magnificence.
Examples of Crowned Birds
To further illustrate the diversity and wonder of crowned birds, here are details on 10 fascinating species:
Palm Cockatoo
Native to rainforests of New Guinea and Australia, the Palm Cockatoo has an expressive crest that turns red when the bird is excited. This large, all-black parrot also has an oversized beak for cracking hard nuts.
Gang-gang Cockatoo
Named for its raspy call, the Gang-gang Cockatoo resides in Australian mountain forests. Its unique grey and red striped crest fans forward from crimson ear patches.
Western Crowned Pigeon
This exotic blue-grey pigeon lives in the tropical forests of West Papua. Its lace-like, spiky head crest inspired indigenous headdresses. At up to 4 pounds, it is one of the largest pigeons.
Rhinoceros Hornbill
Found in Southeast Asian rainforests, the Rhinoceros Hornbill has a golden casque atop its bill that resembles an animal horn. This hollow structure makes loud calls that echo through the canopy.
Andean Cock-of-the-rock
Males of this tropical South American species have a fiery orange fan crest bordered by black. Their acrobatic mating dances showcase this crown. The berry-like crest may mimic poisonous fruits.
Marabou Stork
This unusual African wading bird grows a bald, inflatable throat sac that dangles like a crown. When agitated, it hisses and sways its headgear dramatically. It eats carrion and pursues vultures to steal food.
Greater Bird-of-Paradise
Males of this crowed jewel have long, wire-like flank plumes and an elaborate cape for displays. Their yellow crown changes color based on viewing angle and light conditions.
Wilson’s Bird-of-Paradise
This species, named after its founder, has a distinctive bare blue crown and cheeks shaped like a mask. During mating dances, it expose its electric yellow mantle cape.
Lilac Kingfisher
Found along streams in Papua New Guinea, this kingfisher is easily identified by its tri-colored purple, white and russet collar, wings, and crown. It has a shrill, whinnying call.
Bohemian Waxwing
Flocks of this crested songbird travel nomadically outside the breeding season in search of fruit. Its gray wings bear bright red wax-like tips, lending a grungy rockstar look.
Conclusion
From cockatoos to cranes, birds with crown-like plumage possess some of the most striking adornments in the avian kingdom. This prominent feather headgear serves many purposes for display, communication, status, and beauty. While “crested” is the most precise term for birds with specialized erectile head feathers, vocabulary like “crowned,” “tufted,” and “topknot” also describe avian heads decorated like royalty. By looking closer at birds like the regal Palm Cockatoo and the outrageous Andean Cock-of-the-rock, we gain appreciation for the diversity and symbolism of crowns in the avian world. If you encounter a bird wearing head attire fit for a monarch, it’s likely there for more than just fashion.