Neoptile feathers contribute to outline concealment of precocial chicks

Abstract Camouflage is a widespread strategy to increase survival. The cryptic plumage colouration of precocial chicks improves camouflage often through disruptive colouration. Here, we examine whether and how fringed neoptile feathers conceal the outline chicks. We first conducted digital experiment test two potential mechanisms for concealment appendages: (1) reduction edge intensity (2) luminance transition. Local Edge Intensity Analysis showed that appendages decreased whereas mean comparison revealed created an intermediate transition zone object’s outline. For intensity, diffusion was strongest vision system with low spatial acuity, which characteristic many mammalian chick predators. then analysed photographs young snowy plover ( Charadrius nivosus ) in natural setting. Consistent better camouflage, digitally cropped protruding lower intensities than without those feathers. However, observed changes did not indicate concealment. Taken together, our results suggest thin skin such as improve camouflage. As are widespread, this mechanism may apply organisms.