Birds with mohawks are known for their striking and distinctive head crests, adding a unique flair to their appearance. These crests vary in size and shape, and they often play a role in communication and mating displays. From small songbirds to larger raptors, these crested birds are fascinating and diverse.
Ever wondered why some birds sport an eye-catching mohawk? Discover how these impressive crests help them stand out in their natural habitats and attract mates.
Grey Crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum)
The Grey Crowned Crane, native to Africa, is known for its striking golden crown of feathers atop its head. This elegant bird is often found in wetland areas, where it gracefully wades through shallow waters. Its diet mainly consists of insects, small vertebrates, and plant material, making it an omnivorous feeder.
Unlike many other crane species, the Grey Crowned Crane is capable of roosting in trees due to its long hind toe. These cranes are also known for their elaborate courtship dances, which involve head-bobbing, wing-flapping, and leaping. Despite being a symbol of beauty and grace, the species is classified as vulnerable due to habitat loss and illegal pet trade.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Wetlands, grasslands, and savannahs in Africa |
| Diet | Omnivorous: insects, small vertebrates, plant matter |
| Unique Trait | Golden crown of feathers, can roost in trees |
| Courtship Behavior | Elaborate dances involving head-bobbing and leaping |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable due to habitat loss and illegal pet trade |
Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)
The Northern Cardinal is a vibrant songbird commonly found in North America, recognized for its bright red plumage in males and the more subdued brown tones in females. This species is a frequent visitor to backyard feeders, where it enjoys seeds, fruits, and insects. Its distinctive crest and strong bill make it easy to identify, even from a distance.
Northern Cardinals are known for their melodious songs, which both males and females use to communicate and establish territory. These birds are non-migratory, meaning they stay in the same area year-round. With their bold colors and cheerful presence, they have become a popular symbol of winter and are often featured in holiday decorations.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Woodlands, gardens, and shrublands across North America |
| Diet | Seeds, fruits, and insects |
| Song | Melodious and used for communication |
| Plumage | Bright red in males, brown with red tinges in females |
| Migration | Non-migratory, stays in the same area year-round |
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Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita)
The Sulphur-crested Cockatoo is a large, white parrot native to Australia and New Guinea, easily recognized by its striking yellow crest. These social birds are often seen in noisy flocks, and they are known for their loud, distinctive calls. Their intelligence and playful nature make them popular pets, although they require significant mental stimulation.
Sulphur-crested Cockatoos have a strong beak, which they use to crack open nuts and seeds, their primary food sources. In the wild, they can be found in a variety of habitats, from forests to urban areas. Despite their widespread presence, they are sometimes considered pests in agricultural regions due to their tendency to raid crops.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Forests, woodlands, and urban areas in Australia and New Guinea |
| Diet | Nuts, seeds, fruits, and occasionally insects |
| Crest Color | Bright yellow, used in communication and display |
| Social Behavior | Highly social, often seen in noisy, large flocks |
| Conservation Status | Not threatened, though sometimes considered a pest |
Great Blue Turaco (Corythaeola cristata)
The Great Blue Turaco is the largest species of turaco, found primarily in the rainforests of Central and West Africa. It is easily identified by its striking blue and green plumage, along with a bright yellow beak. These birds are mostly frugivorous, feeding on a variety of fruits, but they also consume leaves and flowers.
Known for their slow, deliberate movements, Great Blue Turacos are often seen gliding between trees in the forest canopy. They live in small family groups and are generally non-aggressive, making them peaceful inhabitants of their environment. Despite their vibrant colors, they blend surprisingly well into the lush, green surroundings of the rainforest.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Rainforests in Central and West Africa |
| Diet | Mainly fruits, but also leaves and flowers |
| Plumage | Vibrant blue and green with a yellow beak |
| Social Structure | Lives in small, peaceful family groups |
| Movement | Slow and deliberate, often gliding between trees |
Western Crowned Pigeon (Goura cristata)
The Western Crowned Pigeon, native to the lowland rainforests of New Guinea, is one of the largest and most majestic pigeons in the world. It is distinguished by its elegant blue-gray plumage and the intricate lacy crest atop its head. This ground-dwelling bird feeds primarily on fallen fruits, seeds, and small invertebrates.
Unlike most pigeons, the Western Crowned Pigeon has a calm and slow demeanor, often seen walking leisurely on the forest floor. These birds are monogamous and form strong pair bonds, typically nesting in the dense undergrowth. Due to habitat loss and hunting, they are classified as Near Threatened.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Lowland rainforests of New Guinea |
| Diet | Fallen fruits, seeds, and small invertebrates |
| Plumage | Blue-gray with a distinctive lacy crest |
| Behavior | Calm, slow-moving, and ground-dwelling |
| Conservation Status | Near Threatened due to habitat loss and hunting |
Eurasian Hoopoe (Upupa epops)
The Eurasian Hoopoe is a striking bird found across Europe, Asia, and North Africa, easily recognized by its vibrant orange brown plumage and prominent black-and-white striped wings. Its most distinctive feature is the impressive crest on its head, which fans out like a crown when the bird is excited or alarmed.
This bird has a unique diet, primarily feeding on insects, larvae, and small reptiles, which it forages from the ground with its long, slender beak. Eurasian Hoopoes are also known for their undulating flight pattern, resembling a giant butterfly as they move between feeding grounds.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Open landscapes, savannas, and gardens across Europe, Asia, and North Africa |
| Diet | Insects, larvae, and small reptiles |
| Crest | Prominent, fan-shaped, and used in communication |
| Flight Pattern | Undulating, butterfly-like motion |
| Plumage | Orange-brown with black-and-white wing stripes |
In addition to their visual appeal, Eurasian Hoopoes are known for their soft, rhythmic calls. They also use a unique defense mechanism, emitting a foul smelling liquid when threatened.
Palm Cockatoo (Probosciger aterrimus)
The Palm Cockatoo, native to the rainforests of New Guinea and northern Australia, is notable for its large size and striking black plumage. Its most distinctive feature is the bright red patch of skin on its face, which can change color depending on the bird’s emotional state.
This cockatoo is known for its unique drumming behavior, using sticks or seeds to tap on hollow trees as part of its courtship rituals. Palm Cockatoos are also among the few birds that can use tools, showcasing their remarkable intelligence.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Rainforests of New Guinea and northern Australia |
| Diet | Seeds, nuts, and fruits |
| Plumage | Striking black with a bright red facial patch |
| Behavior | Drumming with tools as part of courtship |
| Intelligence | Capable of using tools |
In addition to their drumming, Palm Cockatoos have a distinctive, deep call that echoes through the forest. These birds have long lifespans, often living up to 60 years in the wild.
Great Curassow (Crax rubra)
The Great Curassow is a large, ground-dwelling bird native to the tropical forests of Central America. It is easily identified by its glossy black plumage in males and the curly crest of feathers on its head.
Females of the species display a range of colors, from reddish-brown to black with white barring. Great Curassows are primarily frugivorous, feeding on fruits and seeds, but they also eat small invertebrates.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Tropical forests of Central America |
| Diet | Fruits, seeds, and small invertebrates |
| Plumage | Glossy black in males; variable in females |
| Crest | Curly, prominent feathers on the head |
| Behavior | Ground-dwelling, often foraging for food |
In addition to their striking appearance, Great Curassows are known for their deep, resonant calls that can be heard over long distances. Unfortunately, they are threatened by habitat loss and hunting.
Steller’s Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri)
The Steller’s Jay is a striking bird native to the western forests of North America, recognized for its vibrant blue and black plumage. It has a distinctive crest on its head that gives it a unique appearance among jays.
Known for its intelligence, the Steller’s Jay often stores food for later use and is quick to adapt to various habitats, including urban areas. Its diet primarily consists of insects, nuts, seeds, and fruits.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Western forests and mountainous regions of North America |
| Diet | Insects, nuts, seeds, and fruits |
| Plumage | Vibrant blue and black with a crest |
| Behavior | Intelligent, known for food caching and adaptability |
| Call | Harsh, varied vocalizations |
In addition to their adaptability, Steller’s Jays are known for their complex social structures and strong territorial instincts. They are also skilled at mimicking other bird calls and even human sounds.
Cockatiel (Nymphicus hollandicus)
The Cockatiel is a small, friendly parrot native to Australia, popular as a pet due to its playful nature and gentle temperament. It features a distinctive yellow face with a cheek patch that varies in color depending on the bird’s mutation, and a crest on its head that it can raise or lower at will.
Cockatiels are known for their whistling abilities and can learn to mimic simple tunes and sounds. Their diet mainly consists of seeds, fruits, and vegetables, and they thrive in a social environment where they can interact regularly with their human companions.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Native to Australia; popular as a pet worldwide |
| Diet | Seeds, fruits, and vegetables |
| Plumage | Yellow face with variable cheek patches; head crest |
| Behavior | Playful, social, and capable of mimicking sounds |
| Size | Small parrot, approximately 12-13 inches in length |
Cockatiels have a calm disposition and are known for their ability to bond closely with their owners. They also require regular mental stimulation and social interaction to stay happy and healthy.
Grey Go-away-bird (Corythaixoides concolor)
The Grey Go away bird is a distinctive bird native to southern Africa, known for its sleek, grey plumage and long, curved tail. Its unique call, which sounds like go away, is where it gets its name, and it uses this vocalization to warn other birds of potential threats.
These birds are often found in savannas and open woodlands, where they feed primarily on fruits, seeds, and insects. The Grey Go away bird is also recognized for its habit of perching high in trees, allowing it to keep a vigilant lookout for predators.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Savannas and open woodlands in southern Africa |
| Diet | Fruits, seeds, and insects |
| Plumage | Sleek grey with a long, curved tail |
| Call | A distinctive “go away” vocalization |
| Behavior | Perches high in trees and is vigilant for predators |
In addition to their unique call, Grey Go-away-birds are often seen in small family groups, which help them stay safe from predators. They play an important role in their ecosystems by dispersing seeds through their diet.
Victoria Crowned Pigeon (Goura victoria)
The Victoria Crowned Pigeon is a large and striking bird native to the lowland forests of New Guinea, celebrated for its stunning appearance. It features a striking blue-gray plumage and an elaborate, lace like crest that adds to its regal look.
This pigeon feeds primarily on fruits, seeds and small insects, foraging on the forest floor with its powerful legs. Victoria Crowned Pigeons are known for their quiet demeanor and are often seen in pairs or small groups, reflecting their peaceful nature.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Lowland forests of New Guinea |
| Diet | Fruits, seeds, and small insects |
| Plumage | Blue-gray with an elaborate lace-like crest |
| Behavior | Quiet and often seen in pairs or small groups |
| Size | One of the largest pigeon species, with a wingspan of up to 30 inches |
In addition to their impressive appearance, Victoria Crowned Pigeons are gentle and non-aggressive, making them a favored species for aviculturalists. Their habitat is threatened by deforestation, which impacts their conservation status.
Tufted Titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor)
The Tufted Titmouse is a small, charming bird native to eastern North America, easily identified by its distinctive crest of feathers on top of its head. Its plumage is a mix of soft gray on the back and white on the belly, with a subtle peachy hue on the sides.
Known for its lively and curious nature, the Tufted Titmouse feeds on a diet of insects, seeds, and fruits, often seen foraging in trees and shrubs. These birds are also recognized for their melodious calls and their ability to store food for later use.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Eastern North American forests and woodlands |
| Diet | Insects, seeds, and fruits |
| Plumage | Gray back, white belly, with a crest of feathers |
| Behavior | Lively, curious, and known for food caching |
| Call | Melodious and varied vocalizations |
In addition to their pleasant appearance, Tufted Titmice are social birds and often form small flocks outside the breeding season. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in both natural and urban environments.
Southern Crested Guineafowl (Guttera edouardi)
The Southern Crested Guineafowl is a striking bird native to the forests and woodlands of Central Africa, known for its distinctive black and white spotted feathers. It has a prominent crest on its head and a unique, bare face with bright red skin.
This guineafowl forages on the forest floor, feeding mainly on seeds, insects, and small invertebrates. It is known for its loud, grating calls that can be heard over long distances, especially during the breeding season.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Forests and woodlands of Central Africa |
| Diet | Seeds, insects, and small invertebrates |
| Plumage | Black with white spots, and a distinctive crest |
| Call | Loud and grating vocalizations |
| Behavior | Forages on the ground and has a distinctive crest |
In addition to their striking appearance, Southern Crested Guineafowls are known for their strong social bonds and often form large, noisy groups. They are less common in areas with heavy human activity due to habitat loss.
Long-crested Eagle (Lophaetus occipitalis)
The Long crested Eagle is a majestic raptor native to sub-Saharan Africa, easily recognizable by its long, feathered crest that extends from the back of its head. Its plumage is a mix of dark brown and white, providing excellent camouflage in its forested and savanna habitats.
This eagle primarily preys on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, using its sharp talons and keen eyesight to hunt from perches high in trees. Known for its distinctive, high-pitched call, the Long-crested Eagle is often heard before it is seen.
| Feature | Details |
| Habitat | Forests and savannas of sub-Saharan Africa |
| Diet | Small mammals, birds, and reptiles |
| Plumage | Dark brown and white with a prominent feathered crest |
| Call | Distinctive high-pitched vocalizations |
| Behavior | Hunts from high perches and has sharp talons |
In addition to their impressive hunting skills, Long-crested Eagles are known for their solitary nature, often seen alone or in pairs. Their distinctive crest and call make them a standout species among African raptors.
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Frequently asked question
What is a bird with a mohawk called?
Birds with a mohawk-like crest are commonly known as “crested” birds. The term refers to their distinctive, upright feathered crest.
What is the little bird with a mohawk?
The Crested Tit is a small bird known for its prominent, upright crest. This tiny bird is native to the forests of Europe.
What is a big grey bird with a mohawk?
The Grey Crowned Crane is a large grey bird with a striking, elaborate crest. It is native to Africa and has a unique, regal appearance.
What is a reddish bird with a mohawk?
The Northern Cardinal is a reddish bird with a crest that can resemble a mohawk. It is easily recognized by its bright red plumage and distinctive crest.
What kind of bird looks like a pigeon with a mohawk?
The Victoria Crowned Pigeon resembles a pigeon with a stunning, lacy crest. Native to New Guinea, it is known for its impressive and elegant appearance.
What is a small blue bird with a black mohawk?
The Blue Jay is a small blue bird with a distinctive black crest. It is native to North America and is known for its vibrant colors and bold crest.
Conclusion
bird with mohawk like crest have a distinctive feather arrangement that stands upright from their head, giving them a unique appearance. These crested birds can range in size from small species like the Crested Tit to larger ones like the Grey Crowned Crane. The crest can serve various functions, including communication and display. Notable examples include the Northern Cardinal and the Victoria Crowned Pigeon.
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