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A plume is a special type of bird feather, possessed by egrets, ostriches, birds of paradise, quetzals, pheasants, peacocks and quails. They often have a decorative or ornamental purpose, commonly used among marching bands and the military, worn on the hat or helmet of the wearer. When used on military headdresses, the clipped feather plume is referred to as the hackle.
History
The white heron or grande aigrette (Casmerodius albus) was historically highly sought after by plume hunters.
In nature
Brightly coloured plumes are used by American coot chicks to entice their parents to feed them more food. It is a form of chick ornament.
References
- Doughty, Robin W. (1975). Feather fashions and bird preservation : a study in nature protection. Berkeley: University of California Press. p. 10. ISBN 0520094786.
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