What's it called? Is it a decoration? A way to attract a mate? Does it prevent a quail from hitting it's head on branches in the bushes as it scurries through? Does it scare predators or help it blend into shifting leaves and shadows of its habitat?
In history, feathers or sprigs of local plants were put into militia mens' hats to identify where their army was from. This led to marching bands with plumes sprouting up from elaborate headgear. Could the quail's feathers also be a form of identifcation, to show its region to others of the same species? Maybe, rather than feathers, California quail should adorn themselves with palm fronds...
As for a partial answer, the feather cluster on top of a quail's head is called a plume or topknot. As far as it's purpose, what do you think it's for? We're looking for the most creative answers (a quail of a tale...) before revealing next week what scientists suspect is the true purpose of the quail's headgear. Let us know your comments below!