Have you ever seen a bird with a stylish tuft of feathers on its head and thought, “Wow, that bird looks like royalty”? You’re not alone. Birds with crests have a way of catching your eye with their unique appearance. Whether it’s a subtle feathered peak or a dramatic crown, crested birds are truly some of the most charismatic creatures in the avian world.
In this guide, you’ll discover over 20 fascinating birds that sport crests—and trust us, each one has its own flair. Some use their crests to impress mates, others to scare off rivals, and a few just seem to wear them like a natural fashion statement. From tiny titmice to flamboyant cockatoos, crests come in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
Not only are these birds beautiful, but they also span the globe, appearing in woodlands, rainforests, deserts, and even your own backyard. As you scroll through this list, you’ll find detailed information on each bird’s physical traits, scientific name, wingspan, and more. Whether you’re a birdwatching beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, this list is crafted to inspire and educate.
So grab your binoculars (or just your curiosity), and let’s explore the world of crested birds together.
Contents
- 20+ Birds with Crest
- 1. Northern Cardinal
- 2. Cockatiel
- 3. Great Crested Grebe
- 4. Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
- 5. Crested Tit
- 6. Hoopoe
- 7. Blue Jay
- 8. Victoria Crowned Pigeon
- 9. Gray Crowned Crane
- 10. Eurasian Hoopoe
- 11. Red-whiskered Bulbul
- 12. Crested Caracara
- 13. Royal Flycatcher
- 14. Polish Chicken
- 15. Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Inka)
- 16. Steller’s Jay
- 17. Crested Guineafowl
- 18. Bohemian Waxwing
- 19. Black-crested Titmouse
- 20. Indian Peafowl (Peacock)
- FAQs about Birds with Crests
- Conclusion
20+ Birds with Crest
1. Northern Cardinal
The Northern Cardinal is one of the most iconic crested birds in North America, and you’ll recognize it instantly by its vivid red feathers and prominent head crest.
- Scientific Name: Cardinalis cardinalis
- Wingspan: 25–31 cm
- Length: 21–23 cm
- Weight: 42–48 grams
Males flaunt brilliant crimson plumage with a black mask around the face, while females sport a more subdued brownish-yellow coat with hints of red. That trademark crest—pointed and proud—is always upright, giving them a look of constant alertness.
These birds are commonly found in gardens, woodlands, and parks. They have a beautiful whistle-like song and are fiercely territorial. If you’re lucky, you might spot a pair—cardinals are known to mate for life.
2. Cockatiel
Native to Australia, the Cockatiel is a small parrot with a playful personality and a signature crest that reveals its mood.
- Scientific Name: Nymphicus hollandicus
- Wingspan: 30–35 cm
- Length: 30–33 cm
- Weight: 78–125 grams
Their crest rises when they’re curious or excited and flattens when they’re frightened or angry. Cockatiels are gray with orange cheek patches and a yellow face (in males). Females tend to be duller with bars under the tail.
Popular as pets, these birds are intelligent, social, and capable of mimicking sounds. Their expressive crest makes them one of the most charming members of the parrot family.
3. Great Crested Grebe
If you’ve ever walked by a lake and noticed a bird with an ornate feathered crown, you might have seen a Great Crested Grebe in its full glory.
- Scientific Name: Podiceps cristatus
- Wingspan: 85–90 cm
- Length: 46–51 cm
- Weight: 800–1,400 grams
These waterbirds are graceful swimmers with long necks and distinctive crests formed during breeding season. Their black-and-rust crests flare out dramatically when courting.
They dive underwater to catch fish and build floating nests on reed beds. Their elaborate mating dance, where both birds mirror each other’s movements while raising their crests, is one of the most spectacular avian displays you can witness.
4. Sulphur-crested Cockatoo
Looking like a punk rocker of the bird world, the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo is bold, loud, and unmistakably crested.
- Scientific Name: Cacatua galerita
- Wingspan: 90–100 cm
- Length: 44–55 cm
- Weight: 800–1,000 grams
These large white parrots are native to Australia and New Guinea. Their striking yellow crest flares up dramatically when excited or alarmed. They’re known for their intelligence, mischief, and loud calls.
In the wild, they’re often seen in noisy flocks, foraging in treetops or raiding crops. As pets, they demand attention and are known for their ability to mimic human speech.
5. Crested Tit
Found in the pine forests of Europe, the Crested Tit is a small but spunky bird with a distinct black-and-white head crest.
- Scientific Name: Lophophanes cristatus
- Wingspan: 17–20 cm
- Length: 11–12 cm
- Weight: 10–13 grams
Despite their small size, they’re easy to identify thanks to their bold crest, which they flick up when active or alert. Their plumage is a mix of buff and gray with a black bib and eye stripe.
They are non-migratory and prefer coniferous woodlands, especially in mountainous regions. These birds are agile and constantly on the move as they forage for insects and seeds.
6. Hoopoe
The Hoopoe stands out with its bold orange crest tipped in black, making it one of the most exotic-looking crested birds in Europe and Asia.
- Scientific Name: Upupa epops
- Wingspan: 42–46 cm
- Length: 25–29 cm
- Weight: 46–89 grams
When excited or threatened, its crest fans out like a crown. The rest of its body is buff-orange with striking black-and-white striped wings and tail.
Hoopoes are ground foragers that dig for insects with their long, curved bills. Their distinctive “oop-oop-oop” call adds to their charm. You’ll usually find them in open countryside, orchards, and grassy fields.
7. Blue Jay
Bold, clever, and undeniably beautiful, the Blue Jay is a common backyard bird in North America with a brilliant blue crest.
- Scientific Name: Cyanocitta cristata
- Wingspan: 34–43 cm
- Length: 22–30 cm
- Weight: 70–100 grams
The crest rises when the bird is agitated or excited. Blue Jays are loud, intelligent, and highly social. Their plumage features a vibrant mix of blue, white, and black, and their crest adds a dash of drama to their already colorful appearance.
They mimic hawks, cache food, and often warn other birds of danger. Their intelligence and adaptability make them a favorite among birders.
Great! Let’s continue with the remaining birds and complete the article, including FAQs and the conclusion.
8. Victoria Crowned Pigeon
With its lacy, fan-shaped crest, the Victoria Crowned Pigeon looks like it walked out of a royal palace.
- Scientific Name: Goura victoria
- Wingspan: 70–85 cm
- Length: 73–75 cm
- Weight: 2,100–2,400 grams
Native to New Guinea’s lowland forests, this pigeon is one of the largest in the world. Its powdery blue feathers are accented with maroon on the chest, and its delicate crest is topped with white-tipped plumes.
They move gracefully through the forest floor, feeding on fallen fruit and seeds. Despite their elegance, they’re ground dwellers and only fly short distances. Their soft, deep calls echo through dense vegetation.
9. Gray Crowned Crane
Striking and majestic, the Gray Crowned Crane’s golden, spiky crest makes it one of Africa’s most iconic birds.
- Scientific Name: Balearica regulorum
- Wingspan: 180–200 cm
- Length: 100–110 cm
- Weight: 3,000–4,000 grams
This bird’s unique crest is made of stiff golden feathers that radiate from its crown. Its body is mostly gray with striking white, black, and red patches. Found in savannas and wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa, these cranes dance, bow, and leap during courtship.
They feed on insects, seeds, and small vertebrates. Unlike many cranes, they roost in trees—thanks to their long hind toe, which allows for perching.
10. Eurasian Hoopoe
Not to be confused with other hoopoes, the Eurasian Hoopoe has one of the most expressive crests in the bird world.
- Scientific Name: Upupa epops epops
- Wingspan: 44–48 cm
- Length: 26–28 cm
- Weight: 47–89 grams
Its warm orange crest, tipped in black, fans open when alarmed or excited. The black-and-white striped wings and curved bill add even more character.
They prefer warm, open areas and nest in cavities. Their strong-smelling defense (a musky secretion) has earned them the nickname “stinkbird” in some regions.
11. Red-whiskered Bulbul
This tropical songbird is easily spotted by its pointy black crest and vibrant red cheek patches.
- Scientific Name: Pycnonotus jocosus
- Wingspan: 20–22 cm
- Length: 20 cm
- Weight: 23–42 grams
Native to South and Southeast Asia, Red-whiskered Bulbuls thrive in gardens, forests, and city parks. Their upright crest gives them a perky look, and they’re known for their bubbly, melodious calls.
They feed mainly on fruits, insects, and nectar. These bulbuls are social, often seen in small, noisy flocks.
12. Crested Caracara
Part hawk, part falcon—Crested Caracaras are striking raptors with a prominent, brush-like crest.
- Scientific Name: Caracara plancus
- Wingspan: 120–132 cm
- Length: 49–58 cm
- Weight: 1,000–1,300 grams
Found in the Americas, especially in open scrub and savannas, these birds have a black crest, bare orange facial skin, and bold white-and-black plumage.
Unlike most raptors, caracaras are scavengers and often walk on the ground in search of carrion. Their slow, confident stride and punk-like crest make them a standout among birds of prey.
13. Royal Flycatcher
The Royal Flycatcher normally keeps its spectacular crest folded—but when flared, it’s a showstopper.
- Scientific Name: Onychorhynchus coronatus
- Wingspan: ~25–30 cm (estimated)
- Length: 16–18 cm
- Weight: 12–15 grams
Native to Central and South American rainforests, these small birds have a fan-shaped crest colored in reds, oranges, or yellows, depending on the species.
They only raise the crest in moments of high excitement, like courtship or distress. Otherwise, they remain inconspicuous as they flit through the understory, catching insects mid-air.
14. Polish Chicken
Yes, even chickens can wear a crest! The Polish Chicken is famous for its pom-pom-like head feathers.
- Scientific Name: Gallus gallus domesticus
- Wingspan: ~50–60 cm
- Length: ~40–50 cm
- Weight: 1.6–2.5 kg
These domestic birds have large, fluffy crests that sometimes obscure their vision. They come in various colors and patterns, often seen in farmyards and poultry shows.
Though they look dramatic, they’re gentle and friendly birds. Because of their crest, they can be more prone to surprise and need careful handling.
15. Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Inka)
Also known as the Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo, this species brings elegance with a pink-tinted crest tipped in orange and yellow.
- Scientific Name: Lophochroa leadbeateri
- Wingspan: 80–90 cm
- Length: 35–40 cm
- Weight: 400–500 grams
Native to Australia, these birds are quieter than their white cockatoo cousins. Their soft pink plumage and vivid crest give them a gentle appearance.
They inhabit arid woodlands and often nest in eucalyptus trees. Due to their beauty and rarity, they’re a favorite among avian photographers.
16. Steller’s Jay
A cousin of the Blue Jay, Steller’s Jay flaunts a tall, dark crest and deep blue feathers.
- Scientific Name: Cyanocitta stelleri
- Wingspan: 45–48 cm
- Length: 30–34 cm
- Weight: 100–140 grams
Native to western North America, these jays live in pine forests and mountainous areas. Their loud squawks and intelligent behavior make them highly noticeable.
The black crest stands tall and proud, especially when the bird is curious or defensive. These birds are bold, often approaching campsites looking for snacks.
17. Crested Guineafowl
Looking like something out of a fashion show, the Crested Guineafowl sports a curled, afro-style crest.
- Scientific Name: Guttera pucherani
- Wingspan: ~80–85 cm
- Length: 50–58 cm
- Weight: 700–1,300 grams
Native to Sub-Saharan Africa, these birds are covered in black feathers dotted with white spots. The dark crest is curly and gives them a wild, stylish look.
They forage in groups on the ground, feeding on seeds, insects, and small animals. Though shy, they can make quite a racket when disturbed.
18. Bohemian Waxwing
This sleek songbird wears a swept-back crest and has a beautifully smooth gray body with hints of red and yellow.
- Scientific Name: Bombycilla garrulus
- Wingspan: 32–36 cm
- Length: 19–23 cm
- Weight: 45–65 grams
Native to boreal forests of the Northern Hemisphere, Bohemian Waxwings migrate in large flocks in winter, searching for berries.
Their silky plumage and prominent crest give them an almost unreal appearance. They’re sociable and move like synchronized dancers while foraging.
19. Black-crested Titmouse
A close relative of the Tufted Titmouse, the Black-crested Titmouse is easily identified by its bold black crest and bright eyes.
- Scientific Name: Baeolophus atricristatus
- Wingspan: 20–25 cm
- Length: 13–15 cm
- Weight: 10–14 grams
Found in southern Texas and northeastern Mexico, these birds are curious and quick, often visiting feeders. Their black crest adds contrast to their soft gray body and peachy sides.
They’re cavity nesters and often use nest boxes, making them welcome visitors in backyards.
20. Indian Peafowl (Peacock)
Few crests are as elegant as the one on a peacock—though often overshadowed by its tail!
- Scientific Name: Pavo cristatus
- Wingspan: 130–160 cm
- Length: 100–120 cm (up to 230 cm with tail)
- Weight: 4,000–6,000 grams
The male peafowl’s crest is a fan of bluish filaments, perfectly matching his iridescent body. While his tail gets most of the attention, the crest adds to his royal image.
Native to the Indian subcontinent, peacocks are symbols of grace and beauty. They display their tail and crest during courtship with dramatic flair.
FAQs about Birds with Crests
1. Why do birds have crests?
Crests serve multiple purposes—attracting mates, signaling emotions, or deterring predators. In some species, they rise or fall based on mood.
2. Do all crested birds raise their crests?
Not always. Some species, like the Royal Flycatcher, only flare their crests in rare situations, while others, like the Northern Cardinal, keep them raised frequently.
3. Are crested birds found worldwide?
Yes! Crested birds live in diverse habitats across the globe—from tropical jungles to boreal forests and deserts.
4. Can domestic birds have crests too?
Absolutely. Domestic species like Polish Chickens and some pigeon breeds have been selectively bred to have beautiful crests.
5. Do crests help birds fly?
No, crests don’t aid in flight. They’re ornamental or used for communication and don’t influence aerodynamics.
Conclusion
Birds with crests truly stand out in the avian world. From the stately Victoria Crowned Pigeon to the curious Cockatiel, each species has a story told through its unique feathers. Crests come in all shapes—spiky, fluffy, fan-like—and they always add a touch of drama or elegance to a bird’s appearance.
You’ve now met over 20 spectacular birds with crests from all corners of the globe. Whether you’re birdwatching in your backyard or scrolling through photos of faraway jungles, you’ll never look at crested birds the same way again.
Next time you see a bird fluff up that little tuft on its head, you’ll know it might be trying to impress a mate, warn a rival, or simply show off its natural flair. Either way, you’ll appreciate it a little more.
