* Communication: Wattles can be used to communicate with other birds, both within the same species and between different species. For example, turkeys may use their wattles to display dominance or aggression, while chickens may use them to communicate with their chicks.
* Heat regulation: Wattles can help birds to regulate their body temperature. By dilating or constricting the blood vessels in their wattles, birds can increase or decrease the amount of heat that is lost from their bodies.
* Sensing the environment: Wattles can be used to sense the environment around a bird. For example, turkeys may use their wattles to detect predators or potential food sources.
* Protection: Wattles can help to protect birds from injury. For example, the wattles of turkeys may help to protect their necks from being bitten by predators.