What functional difference exists between the male's arresting crest and the female's reduced crest shape?

Answer

The male's crest is engineered to catch light and flash color, while the female's crest acts as a subtle curve defining her silhouette

The head crest is a defining characteristic for both sexes of the Wood Duck, but its execution differs significantly based on sexual display needs. In the male, the crest is extensive and is essentially an extension of the crown and nape feathers specifically structured to interact with light. Its complex feather arrangement is engineered to create an iridescent sheen that shifts color dramatically, potentially confusing predators or competitors via a visual flicker effect under dappled light. Conversely, the female's crest is noticeably reduced and less exaggerated; rather than serving as a dramatic visual feature, it functions more passively, creating a subtle curve in her overall silhouette, though its presence still signifies the species identity.

What functional difference exists between the male's arresting crest and the female's reduced crest shape?

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