Here is a Google AI generated description (with some modifications) of why Hooded Mergansers raise and lower their crests, as seen in the photos below:
The Hooded Merganser's crest is a versatile tool used primarily for communication and physical movement. Both males and females can raise and lower their crests.
Common reasons for this movement include:
- Courtship and Mating: Males raise their fan-shape crests to full size to attract females during elaborate courtship rituals. A larger, whiter crest is preferred by females.
- Dominance and Aggression: Hooded Mergansers raise their hoods to signal dominance or warn away rivals and predators.
- Emotional State: The crest's height often reflects the bird's mood. It is typically raised when they are alert, excited or curious.
- Diving and Flying:. The Hooded Merganser lowers its hood to make their heads more streamlined when diving and flying.
- Relaxation: When a Hooded Merganser is relaxed or at rest, the crest is usually smoothed down or lowered.
- Camouflage: When threatened they can flatten themselves and their crests low against the water to resemble a floating log.
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