Feather Coloration

[brahmakid11]

Which factors, from most to least, determine a bird's (duck, turkey, chicken, etc) feather color intensity? Is it mostly genetics, then time of year, then diet?

For example, male mallard ducks (drakes) have various color intensities of their green heads; iridescent beetle green to a mottled green. Which factors cause this variation? (greatest to least important)

 

[brahmakid11]

i need answers please

 

[TexasLady]

Wow! You see a bit demanding.

The coloring seem to me to be a bit more beautiful when they are breeding. So that means that they must add something to make the color brighter because feathers are replaced in the fall and not so much in the spring. That addition, in my view, is better (or more appropriate) fat added to the diet.

Also, it is clear that genetics plays a factor. Some birds just don't get it, and I believe they would be less desirable to the female and probably either have to be more aggressive or not get a mate.

New feathers seem to be nicer quailty, but I don't know that they are actually prettier colors. Since color intensity seems to come in the spring, I would guess the appropriate fat added is the secret.

 

[brahmakid11]

anyone else?

 

[NYREDS]

The Chicken King should already know the answers.

 

[Henk69]

Your question is a bit wide angled like "how do you spell english words?"

Do you want to know about general color genetics?

Hormonal influences on color (gender, season)?