Article Abstract:
A study of the factors affecting primary molt in the gray-headed albatross showed that the mean number of primaries molted varied with year and previous breeding experience. However, the study also revealed that the same number of primaries molted was not related to individual reproductive success over a longer period. Meanwhile, a positive correlation was noted between the arrival mass of males and the number of primaries molted in two out of four seasons, although both male and female gray-headed albatrosses molted the same number of primaries.
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Article Abstract:
A study examined the pattern and rate of molt and plumage maturation in wandering albatrosses. This research focused on pre-breeding and breeding birds found in South Georgia and Crozet Islands. Results indicate that immature avians undergo a molt cycle which involves molt of outer primaries in a particular year alternating with molt of inner primaries in the following year. It was also discovered that male wandering albatrosses from South Georgia replace more primaries as compared to Crozet birds. Other observations are discussed.
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Article Abstract:
The link between body mass and the rate and pattern of feather growth of the outermost primaries of Wandering Albatross chicks, was investigated. Maximum growth rates for all feathers and between sexes were similar, but primaries of males were much longer than those of females. The distinctive pattern to primary growth is thought to be a mechanism to minimize wear of the outer primaries prior to fledging.
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