AGE – BEST CRITERIA:
In 1cy, moult contrasts are often present in GC. Juvenile GC and TT are broadly tipped in buff. Adult bird shows a uniform and freshly moulted plumage, lacking broad buff tips to GC and TT. Colour of iris is supportive.
1cy:
- If present, post-juvenile GC (commonly 0-3 inner GC are included in the post-juvenile moult) are detected by having slightly darker centre and often less rufous edges (edges often a trifle darker, and sometimes with a olive-brown hue), lacking the distinct buff (or rufous-buff) tips of the juvenile GC.
- Distinct buff (or rufous-buff) tips are often present also in TT.
- Juvenile RR are generally slightly more narrow and more pointed.
- The juvenile PC usually shows slightly looser texture and more worn and vivid rufous-brownish edges compared to adult birds.
- Iris is usually helpful during autumn – most 1cy have a rather cold (olive-) grey iris.
2cy+:
- Whole plumage fresh, lacking moult contrasts.
- Adult GC and TT are fresh, dark and glossy and lacks the distinct buff tips shown by juveniles.
- PC are more dense and often with less vivid (more greyish-brown) edges.
- RR are generally slightly broader with more blunt shaped tips.
- Iris is often (but appearantly not always) medium brown, warmer than juvenile. However, a few adults may show less warm iris, but proportions are unclear.