A cirrostratus cloud is a high-altitude, thin and sheet-like cloud that often covers the entire sky. It is made up of ice crystals and appears as a white or grayish veil that can gradually thicken and darken. Other synonyms for cirrostratus clouds include high-level clouds, veil clouds or mackerel sky clouds, because they sometimes resemble the patterns of a fish scale. They can also be called feather cloud or cirrus veil. Cirrostratus clouds are a sign of oncoming weather changes, as they often precede a storm or front. They are often seen in the winter season, and can create beautiful sunsets as they reflect colors against the sky.