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

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

eclipse plumage

This hen-like appearance is called the eclipse plumage.

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

Early fall drakes are usually still in full eclipse plumage.

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

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 J. T. Cunningham

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 Robert W. Hines

At this time the bird would be in eclipse plumage.

From Hormones and Heredity by J. T. Cunningham

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