|
Stephen,
The prebasic molt of avocets (leading to the Basic plumage or "winter
plumage") actually can begin at breeding sites in July and completed during
migration. The first signs of the prebasic molt is the replacement of the
reddish head feathers with gray feathers. Birds have been known
to start prebasic molt while still incubating.
Cheers
JFC
John F. Cavitt PhD
Dept. of Zoology Weber State University 2505 University Circle Ogden, UT 84408-2505 "A thing is right when it tends to preserve the integrity, stability, and beauty of the biotic community. It is wrong when it tends otherwise." Aldo Leopold |