What is a wattle?

What is a wattle?

• A. A fleshy growth that hangs from the neck or throat of some birds.
• B. A type of wing feather found on some species.
• C. A beak extension used for digging.
• D. A shell on the foot used for protection.

Answer: (A)

A wattle is a fleshy, skin-covered growth that hangs from the neck or throat of some birds. It isn’t a feather or a beak extension, and it’s not a protective shell on the foot. Wattles are often vascular and can appear bright red or vivid in some species, and they can become more pronounced when the bird is hot or excited. They also serve as a visual signal in social and mating contexts.