Chickadees, sparrows, and most other birds go through life with just feathers on the top of their head Some, like cardinals, have gaudy crests Chickens are different They have fleshy combs on their heads with wattles dangling below

What good are combs? No one is completely sure, but they are impressive Combs may play a reproductive role  A rooster might prefer cozying up with a hen sporting a tall single comb Or he might prefer one with a more subtle pea comb

Combs help chickens regulate their body temperature  Warm blood circulating in a comb releases body heat into the air