Leucistic American Robin in Waukesha Wisconsin on March 22, 2017

It was nice to see this spring bird, a Leucistic American Robin in Waukesha today. It was on the south side of Waukesha near soccer fields. There were about 20 American Robins present in the area and all were actively feeding. Interestingly they would hold their head still near the ground and listen for worms, etc moving. Once they heard the sound of food they would poke the ground and usually come up with something. I was out birding and around noon in Waukesha area and I got a text from Dan W that he had the bird currently within views with Janet S. Just as I arrived the bird flew out of the area and we could not relocate the bird. After about 20 minutes I relocated the bird near a building lawn. The bird was first found by Jason S yesterday at the same location. A big thank you to both of them for getting the word out and the text today. I saw the report late yesterday afternoon and thought, I doubt an American Robin would spend the night here and be seen the next day, I was wrong.  Images were taken on March 22, 2017.

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What is Leucism?  Leucism is an uncommon condition in birds.  This condition is caused by a genetic mutation which prevents pigments, particularly melanin, from being deposited evenly in the bird’s feathers.  Leucistic birds have melanin elsewhere in their bodies which is why they may have dark eyes, legs, and bills.  However, their true color will be missing or greatly reduced due to the lack of proper pigmentation.

What is Albinism? Leucism is similar to albinism as in both cases the birds may be completely white.  However, albinism is defined as a complete absence of melanin in an animal.  Truly albino species will have pink eyes as the only color seen will be caused by blood vessels behind their eyes.  They will also have pink bills, legs, and feet.  Albinism is extremely rare in birds.

Notes: Leucistic birds are extremely uncommon for a number of reasons.  They are not thought to live very long because their white feathers make it difficult for them to hide from predators.  If they do stay alive, it is difficult for them to find a mate and successfully pass on their genetic mutation.  Additionally, the melanin found in regular birds adds strength to the feathers.  Leucistic birds lacking melanin have weaker feathers and thus have a more difficult time flying in severe weather.  Last, the reflective properties of white feathers may be problematic for birds who rely on solar energy for heat.

Listening for movement a possible worm

Listening for movement, a possible worm

The catch, a worm!

The catch, a worm!

Listening for movement a possible worm

Listening for movement, a possible worm

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Another catch or maybe a miss?

Looks like maybe a miss?

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Back view...

Another view…

Backview...

Backview…

Listening for movement a possible worm

Listening for movement, a possible worm

Listening for movement a possible worm

Listening for movement, a possible worm…

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About admin

Window to Wildlife features the photography of Jim Edlhuber. A lifelong native of Wisconsin, Jim has been photographing wildlife for 20 years. He considers himself an avid photographer and is always trying to capture nature and wildlife through his lens. He is in several photography clubs and has won numerous awards for his work. In recent years, Jim has focused mostly on birding photography and finds it to be the most challenging.

8 Responses to Leucistic American Robin in Waukesha Wisconsin on March 22, 2017

  1. Gerald Haiar says:

    Great find. Saw a leucistic bluejay near ho-nee-um pond, Madison, years ago. Hardly any blue at all. Striking.

  2. Nan Wisherd says:

    Thanks, Jim, for allowing all of us to see this interesting bird.

  3. Annie says:

    Thanks Jim. Actually very pretty. Thanks the “up close” pics.

  4. This was fascinating. I remember seeing a Robin with unusual white markings near Lake Tichigan a few years back. They really catch your eye. We moved a few years ago and have wetlands surrounding us….I’m slowly learning about those wetland birds too. Stunning Views

  5. Mike says:

    I have a leucistic robin living around my house in Whitefish Bay, WI. I believe it hatched from a nest on my house. Last year the robin was spotted. This year I noticed it is almost completely white. Very pretty mutation. I have a photo (poor quality) but not sure how to share it.

  6. Dusty berg says:

    Saw him today at the elementary school hyer I believe it’s called. Got a few shots on my iphone.

  7. Hope says:

    I just saw one in my back yard in the Town of Waukesha

  8. Melissa says:

    I saw one at my feeder here in Ohio. I was so excited to finally see one after all these years!

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