What gives the Whimbrel's brown-gray back feathers a scaled appearance?
Answer
Pale edges on the brown-gray back feathers
The general plumage coloration of the Whimbrel is described as being brown-gray, but closer inspection reveals specific patterning that aids in identification. The feathers covering the back often exhibit a textured look described as scaled. This scaled appearance is directly attributable to the structure of the feather edges; specifically, the brown-gray back feathers possess pale edges. These pale margins create a visual effect that mimics overlapping scales across the bird's mantle when observed in the field, contributing to the overall mottled impression of the plumage.
Related Questions
What feature accentuates the Whimbrel's long, decurved bill?What specific Whimbrel type do many North American birders observe?Where are the Whimbrel breeding territories typically situated?Besides coastal mudflats, what inland habitats do migrating Whimbrels frequent?Where is the majority of the Whimbrel population located for the non-breeding season?When does the fall migration often see larger concentrations of Whimbrels on the New England coast?What tidal condition maximizes Whimbrel foraging success on coastal mudflats?In Wisconsin, during which month does the Whimbrel typically appear during the spring northward push?What gives the Whimbrel's brown-gray back feathers a scaled appearance?What feature is a hallmark for identifying the Whimbrel's head pattern?What factor appears more critical than proximity to the open ocean for inland stopovers?