Shades of Green: Earth's Forests -- Birds

The males and females of some bird species appear identical. In other species, males have very brightly colored or elaborate plumage, which they show off during breeding season. Some of these plumage differences are more important than others. The male common flicker has a "mustache" of black feathers. It is this "mustache" which identifies him as a male. If the black feathers are painted over, the female ignores him, thinking he's another female. In turn, if a black "mustache" is painted on the female, the male will vigorously chase her out of his territory, thinking she is another male.

Below: A female cardinal. Males have bright red feathers. Photo by Maya Walters.

In all cases, female birds are not as brightly colored as the males. Females are usually brown or green, since they need to be camouflaged while sitting on eggs in the nest. Gaudy plumage definitely makes the males more visible to predators. This is why males of some bird species do not have specially colored feathers, and might instead perform elaborate displays or drum on trees to defend their territory.

Above: Mynah birds have dark coloring, but conspicuous yellow bills. Photo by Maya Walters.

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