CLOSED: A question on winter/summer plumage for Resin

Resin,

I’m here in Hawaii and have encountered something I don’t understand. I’m wondering if you might have an explanation.

Most of the city parks here, have Pacific Golden Plovers, all in winter plumage, as would be expected. However, the single P. G. Plover on display, at the zoo, was in full breeding plumage. There were even wild Plovers wandering around the zoo lawns, in winter plumage.

Gary

P.S.
I don't have the ability to post any photos, until I get back to Alaska, but have nearly 600 so far.

Bit strange! I don't know the answer, but to speculate, I'd guess the captive one has had its normal moult programme messed up by the lack of environmental cues over the years it has been unable to go on its expected migration route.

The wild ones should be starting to get summer plumage fairly soon (before they leave for the Arctic) except for one-year old immatures (which may not get much or any breeding plumage). Around here, many European Golden Plovers are already in full breeding plumage. The ones that breed further south (e.g. northern Britain) get summer plumage earlier than those that breed further north (e.g. northern Scandinavia).

Hope you're having a great time!

Resin

Enjoy the great weather!Looking forward to seeing your pics Gary!

Thanks, Resin & Pell.
Gary