What characteristic defines the plumage of mature adult Wandering Albatrosses?
Answer
Mostly white body with black wingtips
The appearance of the Wandering Albatross changes significantly as it matures. Juvenile birds generally exhibit darker plumage, especially noticeable on the head and back areas. However, as they age and reach maturity, the body plumage becomes progressively whiter. The most distinctive feature in mature adults is the stark contrast created by their mostly white bodies set against the dark, typically black, trailing edges or tips of their massive wings. This combination serves as a hallmark feature distinguishing them from their younger counterparts.
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