First description of the natal plumage of Black-crowned White-eye (Zosterops atrifrons atrifrons)
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Abstract
The breeding biology of tropical birds, including those that inhabit the Indo-Pacific region, remain poorly known. Here, we present the first description of the natal plumage of Black-crowned White-eye (Zosterops atrifrons atrifrons) based on a single observation in Sulawesi, Indonesia. On 13 May 2022, we observed a fledgling Z. a. atrifrons clinging to the lower branches of a large pine tree (Pinus sp.) in partially logged secondary forest. Provisioning by presumed parental birds allowed us to identify the species. The whitish underparts and dark olive green back of the natal plumage is similar to the adult plumage of Z. atrifrons. We suspect the young bird had recently fledged due to its very short tail, partially emerged remiges, and complete dependence on the adults for food.
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