Yes. Though the extent of this varies a lot (certainly between species). It seems odd that they would want to be migrating whilst moulting but they want to
be first at their breeding grounds looking spiff. From my memory this appearance is not so odd for this species (although most not so advanced and it is years since I have seen them). Books tend to like to illustrate either eclipse plumages or full breeding
plumages (maybe because they are neater).
Philip
From: Lindsay Hansch [
Sent: Sunday, 27 March 2016 3:30 PM
To: COG-L
Subject: [canberrabirds] Pacific Golden Plover
I took the photo below last Thursday at Mystery Bay (just north of Bermagui). I was surprised to see so much colour so late in the season. Is it normal for birds
to begin to colour up before they commence migration. I profess no great knowledge on migratory waders so would appreciate any views
Regards
Lindsay Hansch
