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The epaulets are not aerodynamic control surfaces like canards or flaps.
• They’re feather patches used for visual signaling, but can be moved independently.
• Any aerodynamic impact would be minimal and secondary, not functionally exploited for flight control.
That said, nature is full of hybrid functions, and it’s possible these features evolved in a way that leverages both display and minor flight modulation during aggressive or courtship flights.
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Source: ChatGPT 4o