How does the non-breeding or winter plumage of the male Whinchat differ from its peak breeding attire?
Answer
The black areas become dusky or brownish, and the apricot wash on the chest becomes much paler.
Plumage descriptions generally reflect the bird in its peak breeding condition, but significant changes occur outside this period. When the male enters its non-breeding or winter phase, it loses much of the sharp, high-contrast appearance characteristic of spring. Specifically, the bold black feathering dulls down, transforming into dusky or brownish tones. Concurrently, the vibrant apricot wash that characterizes the breeding breast becomes significantly paler, resulting in an overall appearance that makes the winter male resemble a larger, duller version of the female.
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