These excellent images by Paul illustrate what i believe to show first winter male and female birds. The top image of a Velvet with a slightly less distinct ear covert patch is the male. The yellow on the bill is just starting to come through and when seen in direct comparison with the other bird, this male was distinctly larger. The female has an all black bill and can be picked out at distance by her more defined white ear covert patch. The ear coverts can be varied in their clarity though, so this in itself is not a method to sex this species as i understand. Both birds are clearly first winters as evidenced by their deep chocolate brown plumage and dark eyes. Would be interested to hear other comments on this duo. all the best Dave Lowe
These excellent images by Paul illustrate what i believe to show first winter male and female birds. The top image of a Velvet with a slightly less distinct ear covert patch is the male. The yellow on the bill is just starting to come through and when seen in direct comparison with the other bird, this male was distinctly larger. The female has an all black bill and can be picked out at distance by her more defined white ear covert patch. The ear coverts can be varied in their clarity though, so this in itself is not a method to sex this species as i understand. Both birds are clearly first winters as evidenced by their deep chocolate brown plumage and dark eyes. Would be interested to hear other comments on this duo. all the best Dave Lowe
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