Moult terminology: Let's make it simpler!

An understanding of feather moult, an important process in the life cycle of birds, lags behind that of other avian life-history events. This lag includes a lack of scientific attention, but surprisingly also a lack of basic knowledge regarding the moult strategy of many bird species. This situation is particularly astonishing in light of the fact that feathers are a unique characteristic of birds. Currently, there are two main terminology systems for describing moult: one life-cycle-based and one plumage-based (H–P terminology). A survey conducted among 434 birdwatchers, bird-ringers (banders) and ornithologists showed a significant difference in understanding of the two terminologies. Ornithologists studying moult, as well as editors and reviewers, are called upon to make use of, and encourage the use of, understandable moult terminology, as much as possible. Using more understandable terms and language may help a wider audience of amateurs, students and ornithologists to understand moult. Involvement of a wider audience may advance data collection and research of this important event in the avian life cycle.