Crest (feathers)
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The crest is a prominent feature exhibited by several bird and other dinosaur species on their heads. It is distinct from features such as casques and cockscombs - sometimes erroneously referred to as "crests", which are bony and fleshy structures respectively.
The grey crowned crane - an example of a crested bird species
A restoration of the dinosaur Anchiornis, showing the crest of feathers on its head
Citron-crested cockatoo crest feathers (on 1 cm grid)
Major Mitchell's cockatoo
Feather
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Feathers are epidermal growths that form a distinctive outer covering, or plumage, on both avian (bird) and some non-avian dinosaurs and other archosaurs. They are the most complex integumentary structures found in vertebrates and a premier example of a complex evolutionary novelty. They are among the characteristics that distinguish the extant birds from other living groups.
Feather variations
Parts of a feather: Vane Shaft, rachis Barb Aftershaft, afterfeather Quill, calamus
Feather structure of a blue-and-yellow macaw
A contour feather from a Guinea fowl