Young sp: The existence of a post-juvenile moult have been debated for at long time. Geographical differences is likely to play a part, but in Scandinavia the general rule is that no true moult is conducted – only a prolonged completion of the juvenile plumage. Only very few birds moult single inner GC before autumn migration.
Young WC: The pre-breeding moult includes the whole plumage, but differing (or prolonged) periods of moult during winter often create a variation in wear, as well as true moult contrasts, seen in spring migrants.
Adult sp: The post-breeding moult is variable, but always restricted. Parts of body and head may be included, but only very few include single inner GC.
Adult WC: The pre-breeding moult includes the whole plumage, but differing (or prolonged) periods of moult during winter often create a variation in wear, as well as true moult contrasts, seen in spring migrants.