color phase

American  

noun

1. a genetically controlled variation in the colors of the skin, pelt, or plumage of an animal.

2. one of two or more colorings assumed by an animal, varying with age or season.

---

Etymology

Origin of color phase

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Blue geese are a color phase of the lesser snow.

From Ducks at a Distance A Waterfowl Identification Guide by Hines, Robert W.

Five are in the reddish color phase and one is in the brownish phase.

From Noteworthy Mammals from Sinaloa, Mexico by Jones, J. Knox

All specimens examined are in the brown color phase.

From The Recent Mammals of Tamaulipas, Mexico by Alvarez, Ticul