Saturday, March 21, 2009

Pied Robin?



I took this for a Robin even though it had patches of white throughout its wings and tail. Perhaps I'm wrong, or perhaps it's a Robin afflicted with leucism, which I've read is relatively rare and a bummer because these individuals are less likely to find a mate and avoid predators. I saw a sparrow with an uncharacteristic white wing as well last fall, so perhaps this condition is not so rare in Brooklyn. Here's the sparrow, and another oddball Robin.

3 comments:

R. Edebohls said...

It's an immature (juvenile) Robin.

amarilla said...

This is cheerful news! Thanks.

amarilla said...

I later asked a birder's advice about this bird, after seeing a photo of a similar bird shot at the same location. Photo here: http://peters-prospect-bird-sightings.blogspot.com/2009/04/419-prospect-inc-albino-american-robin.html

Here's Scott Whittle's opinion...

I don't think it's a juvenile... juveniles would be seen in May-September, having hatched newly that year after the breeding season. Also, juveniles have spotted, pale breasts, not the bright orange that this bird displays. After September they would be transitioned into adult plumage. This bird looks partially leucistic to me...note that not only are there white patches in the wings, but also a white patch on the back of the head. Interesting bird!

Scott Whittle
www.yearofthebird.com