Moulting

Molting is a natural process undergone by birds, including the Cinnamon Quail-Dove (Geotrygon inagkaura), in which old feathers are shed and replaced with new ones. The timing and duration of molting can vary among bird species and individuals, influenced by factors such as age, breeding status, environmental conditions, and physiological needs.

Cinnamon Quail-Doves typically undergo molting at least once a year, although the timing and extent of molting may vary depending on factors such as geographic location and seasonal changes. Molting is often synchronized with periods of reduced activity or resource availability, allowing birds to allocate energy and resources towards feather replacement without compromising other essential functions such as foraging or breeding.

During molting, Cinnamon Quail-Doves shed old feathers gradually, starting with the body feathers and progressing to the flight feathers. The molting process can take several weeks to months to complete, during which time birds may appear duller or more ragged in appearance as old feathers are replaced with new ones. Molting typically occurs in discrete stages, with different regions of the body molting at different times.

The timing of molting in Cinnamon Quail-Doves may be influenced by various factors, including photoperiod (day length), hormonal changes, and nutritional status.

In some cases, molting may be synchronized with seasonal changes in food availability or breeding activities, ensuring that birds have access to optimal resources during periods of increased energy expenditure.

Molting is energetically demanding for birds, requiring significant resources to produce new feathers and support physiological processes associated with feather growth. During molting, Cinnamon Quail-Doves may adjust their behavior and activity levels to conserve energy and minimize stress, focusing on rest and self-maintenance activities.

Feather quality and condition are essential considerations for Cinnamon Quail-Doves during molting, as feathers play critical roles in flight performance, thermoregulation, and camouflage. Birds invest considerable energy in preening and grooming activities to maintain feather health and integrity, removing dirt, oil, and parasites that can compromise feather function.

The completion of molting marks the transition to a new plumage cycle for Cinnamon Quail-Doves, with birds sporting fresh, vibrant feathers that are essential for their survival and reproductive success. The onset of a new plumage cycle may coincide with changes in behavior, such as increased activity levels or territorial behaviors associated with breeding activities.

Overall, molting is a vital and adaptive process for Cinnamon Quail-Doves, ensuring the continued health and functionality of their plumage throughout their lives. Understanding the timing, duration, and ecological significance of molting provides valuable insights into the life history and ecological requirements of these charismatic birds in their natural habitat.