Faded in the Turquoise Parakeet

What is the Faded mutation?

Faded is logged in this calculator's reference data as an autosomal recessive melanin mutation. Unlike Fallow, it isn't noted as a red-eyed mutation in this project's reference material — it's tracked as its own distinct locus, separate from the fallow family.

How it works, in plain terms

Faded-type mutations reduce overall pigment intensity across the plumage, producing a generally softer, lighter-toned bird rather than a sharply different pattern. This project's source material is thinner on Faded specifically than on some of the other loci, so treat the exact visual description here as a general guide rather than a precise breed standard — if you're trying to distinguish a Faded bird from a Dun Fallow or Dilute bird by eye, cross-check against current photographs from an experienced Neophema breeder.

Autosomal recessive inheritance, explained

Faded sits on an ordinary autosome, so cocks and hens inherit and can carry it identically. As a recessive trait, it takes two copies to show:

• One copy (split) — the bird looks completely normal but can pass the mutation to offspring.
• Two copies (visual) — the bird shows the faded, lightened coloring.

Genotype → phenotype