This is a unique looking bird with that cool feather topknot. I wonder if it serves a purpose other than aesthetics.

This is a unique looking bird with that cool feather topknot. I wonder if it serves a purpose other than aesthetics.

The little topknot is a mood ring and a flashy dating profile all in one. It’s actually a cluster of six feathers that bobs around to signal vibes to the rest of the crew or to flex for potential mates. Both the guys and the girls have them, but the males usually have the bigger, darker ones to make sure they're the center of attention.
That's a neat species. It has always fascinated me that in most birds, the male is the showy one with the bright or unusual plumage. It usually transmits information about the male's healthy status to attract the ladies.