töyhtöinen

Töyhtöinen is a Finnish word that translates to "tufted" or "crested" in English. It is commonly used to describe animals that possess a prominent tuft or crest of feathers, fur, or other hair-like structures.

One of the most well-known examples of a töyhtöinen animal is the crested tit (Parus cristatus), a small bird found in Europe. This tit species is characterized by its distinctive black and white crest, which it can raise or lower depending on its mood or perceived threat. Another example is the tufted puffin (Fratercula cirrhata), a seabird native to the North Pacific. These puffins have long, yellow, hair-like plumes that extend from their heads during the breeding season, giving them a strikingly "tufted" appearance.

In addition to birds, the term töyhtöinen can also be applied to mammals. For instance, certain breeds of dogs might be described as töyhtöinen if they have a natural crest or tuft of fur on their heads. The term emphasizes a prominent, often ornamental, growth that stands out from the rest of the animal's covering. The presence of a töyhtöinen feature can serve various purposes, including display during courtship, species recognition, or even as a form of camouflage or protection.