Slaty-backed Gull (schistisagus) adult October
Birds in the last stage of the complete moult, with outer primaries growing (commonly old P10 still present in the first week of this month).
Moult gaps in the wing-coverts will close, when the central greater coverts are replaced and the small feathers in the carpal edge are renewed (that will take place in October).
Secondaries and rectrices are in active moult; the secondaries are replaced by two moult waves. One moult wave from the body outwards, and another moult wave from S1 inwards. These two waves will meet at about S16-S17. Tail feathers are replaced centrifugal; the central feathers are dropped first and the outer rectrices last in line. |