The birds' feathers wear out and must be replaced by annual or biannual molts that require a lot of energy. This biological process of losing old feathers and regrowing new ones is essential to the survival of the birds. It provides them with better insulation, better lift, the restoration of their buoyancy, but also better mimicry and an additional argument during their courtship displays. The molt happens during periods of low activity and when food is abundant. Such characteristics coincide with the pre-nuptial period - in winter before nesting - for the greater flamingo (Phœnicopterus roseus).