What distinct plumage feature characterizes immature *Grus americana* compared to the striking appearance of the adults?
Answer
A cinnamon-buff wash over their white plumage
The physical characteristics used to identify Whooping Cranes evolve as they mature. While the adult bird is famous for its stark contrast—an overwhelmingly white body set against black primary and secondary flight feathers—young birds display a different initial coloration. Immature Whooping Cranes are noted for exhibiting a wash of cinnamon-buff coloration over their otherwise white feathers. This difference in plumage provides a visible cue for field identification and is part of the species' distinct morphological profile detailed outside of its basic taxonomy.
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