
The brilliant yellow, orange, and red that you seen on many birds are not just for decoration; the colors send an important message about the health of each individual.
The colors are products of pigments known as carotenoids, which a bird gains from its diet and uses in its immune system. Consequently, a bird showing off bright yellow or red plumage is sending a message that it is healthy and eating well.
Start Your Free Trial to Continue Reading
Become a BirdWatching member to access our first-rate articles and columns on bird ID and photography as well as quarterly webinars hosted by experts in the field.
Read our newsletter!
Sign up for our free e-newsletter to receive news, photos of birds, attracting and ID tips, and more delivered to your inbox.
Sign Up for Free