What modification softens the male Yellowhammer's brilliant yellow in non-breeding plumage?
Answer
Overlaid with buff or brownish washings
The male Yellowhammer exhibits seasonal variation in its plumage. While the brilliant yellow is the defining characteristic during the breeding season, this intensity is slightly reduced when the bird transitions into non-breeding plumage. This softening effect is achieved not by a complete loss of the yellow base, but rather by the overlaying of other duller pigments. Specifically, buff or brownish washings cover the bright tones, reducing the overall brilliance compared to his spring appearance, although the underlying yellow tones generally persist more visibly in the male than they do in the female year-round.
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