Starling with Leucistic Problems

 

 

I have seen and photographed a starling which is like a partial albino. It is called "a leucistic condition." This particular bird was an adult and was here in the winter along with a normal size flock of starlings stopping to eat. I don't remember how long it was here but at least a week. I never saw it after it left and suspect it met with a predator since it stood out against a dark green background. You can see the difference in this photo of two starlings on the fence discussing the weather.
It was also most visible in the flock as its feathers shown white and all the other birds were black.

Cornell emphasizes that if you ever do see one of these rare birds, consider yourself lucky. They would also like to hear about it. For more information on their Project FeederWatch or to report a leucistic ("partial albino") or albino bird, contact them at www.birds.cornell.edu. I have the photo above to them.

Flickr Tags: starlings,leucistic condition

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