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Four advanced, white, tail feathers on an otherwise typical 2nd cycle Lesser Black-backed.
Kenosha County, Wisconsin. 10 December 2017.
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The above bird from last weekend has inspired this post. The mismatch in tail-feather pattern doesn't seem to be too uncommon in this age group. I do wonder if these are 3rd generation feathers contained in the 2nd molt cycle (via an extensive prealternate molt).
Here are a few more individuals from east-central Florida to chew over.
Bird #1 - Volusia County, Florida. 23 Jan 2015.
Bird #2 - Brevard County, Florida. 26 January 2015.
Bird #3 - Brevard County, Florida. 24 January 2016.
Bird #4 - Brevard County, Florida. 26 January 2017.
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| Appears to be in active molt. |