How does the bright breeding male Whinchat’s plumage change during the non-breeding molt?

Answer

His sharp colors are replaced with more muted, buff-edged feathers.

A significant transition occurs in the male Whinchat's appearance as the breeding season concludes and the non-breeding period approaches, driven by the differing immediate evolutionary demands of survival versus reproduction. Following the breeding phase, the male undergoes a molt where his highly conspicuous plumage is shed. In its place grow feathers that are considerably more subdued in tone; specifically, they feature muted colors with buff edging. This seasonal alteration effectively reduces his visibility, making him much more difficult to differentiate from the female while residing on his wintering grounds. This adaptive change emphasizes the temporary nature of the vibrant breeding display, prioritizing camouflage during migration and the winter survival period.

How does the bright breeding male Whinchat’s plumage change during the non-breeding molt?

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