What key difference exists in eye appearance between a mature White-Eyed Vireo and its young juveniles?

Answer

Juveniles have dark eyes initially, developing the distinctive white irises only as they mature.

A significant field mark distinguishing age in the White-Eyed Vireo is the coloration of the iris. Upon hatching and during their initial developmental stages, the juvenile birds are characterized by having dark eyes. It is only as these young birds mature into adults that they acquire the characteristic, distinctive white irises for which the species is named. This difference is important for observers because the diet of a family group immediately post-fledging may be more varied as adults cater to changing needs, whereas the diet of an adult with fully developed white irises is likely to be more stable and reflect established foraging patterns.

What key difference exists in eye appearance between a mature White-Eyed Vireo and its young juveniles?

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