falsehorned

Falsehorned is a term used in the field of ornithology to describe a bird that has a horn-like structure on its head, but this structure is not a true horn. These structures are often referred to as "horns" due to their appearance, but they are typically made of keratin, the same material that makes up human hair and nails. Falsehorned birds are found in various families and genera, and the exact function of these structures can vary. In some species, they may be used for display purposes during mating rituals, while in others, they may serve a protective function. Despite their name, these structures are not true horns, as they do not grow from the skull or have any bony structure. The term "falsehorned" is used to differentiate these birds from those that have true horns, such as the horned lark (Eremophila alpestris).