How many years does it take for Sabine’s Gulls to fully attain adult plumage?
Answer
Two years
Sabine’s Gulls follow an extended immature schedule for feather development, requiring a period of two full years before they finally achieve the complete adult appearance. This prolonged immature phase involves navigating several intermediate plumages. Fledged juveniles retain their initial juvenile plumage throughout the autumn, only beginning the molt into their first winter plumage after they have already reached their distant southern wintering grounds, which is itself a departure from the usual molt timing seen in other gulls.
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