Why did Juan Ponce de León wear a feather in his hat?

Juan Ponce de León wore a feather in his hat as a symbol of nobility and status, which was common among European explorers and aristocrats during the Age of Exploration. The feather served not only as a decorative element but also signified his rank and distinguished him from others. Additionally, it reflected the fashion of the time, showcasing his wealth and the cultural influences of the indigenous peoples he encountered.