What are "Vulture Hocks" in poultry?

"Vulture Hocks" refers specifically to feathers that grow from the lower thighs of birds, projecting backward. This characteristic is particularly noticeable in certain breeds of poultry. These feathers can resemble those of a vulture, hence the name. They serve an aesthetic purpose in poultry shows, as they are part of the breed standard for birds exhibiting this feature, often contributing to the overall appearance and desirability of the bird in competition settings.

The other options refer to different anatomical features or characteristics in poultry. Feather formations from the neck or defects in wing structure are unrelated to the specific definition of Vulture Hocks, while various comb styles represent a different aspect of poultry morphology entirely. Recognizing these distinctions helps in understanding breed standards and the importance of specific traits in poultry showmanship.