eclipse plumage

American  

noun

Ornithology.

1. the dull plumage developed in some brightly colored birds after the breeding season.

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eclipse plumage British  

noun

1. seasonal plumage that occurs in certain birds after the breeding plumage and before the winter plumage: characterized by dull coloration

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Etymology

Origin of eclipse plumage

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

eclipse plumage

At this time the bird would be in eclipse plumage.

From Hormones and Heredity by Cunningham, J. T.

Early fall drakes are usually still in full eclipse plumage.

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

The idea here seems to be that since the eclipse plumage is only assumed when the testis is present, therefore it must be a male character.

From Hormones and Heredity by Cunningham, J. T.

This hen-like appearance is called the eclipse plumage.

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

Blue-winged teal and shovelers may retain the eclipse plumage until well into the winter.

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