Evidence of prenuptial moult in the Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus

Evidence for a partial prenuptial moult in the Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus is reported for the first time, and is based on both live and museum specimens. The prenuptial moult, which is probably undertaken in the African winter quarters shortly before the spring migration, involves body feathers and often some innermost secondaries. The moult pattern is discussed in the context of the Ardeid and compared with those of other Ixobrychus species. Current ageing criteria are also reconsidered.

Francesco Pezzo* and Andrew G. Gosler, Ringing & Migration (2005) 22, 129-132