August 19, 2023: What was that white bird? Albino vs. Leucistic Birds
In late June, a Yardley resident noticed a “white” bird at her bird feeder, took some photos and sent them to us asking “Is this a white house finch?” This seemed to be a random observation as the bird has not been seen since the original sighting.
But what was this “white” bird? Birds with “abnormal” plumage are quite rare and both leucism and albinism are easily recognized and more commonly reported. The condition has been estimated to occur roughly in 1 in 30,000 birds. Further, of 100 birds that show this abnormal plumage, 82 are leucistic and only 3 are albinistic. 
In a recent survey, blackbirds (such as crows) and house sparrows seemed to demonstrate a high frequency of abnormal plumage, but it has also been seen in cardinals, white-throated sparrows, purple finches, and even hummingbirds.
Telling the difference between an albino bird and a leucistic bird is not always easy. Genes determine true albino birds. A bird is a true albino if all its feathers are white or pale as well as its feet, legs, and bill. But the tell-tale trait is the pale pink or red eye color. However, birds with pale feathers but normal-colored eyes have a condition known as leucism. Unlike albino birds, which completely lack the natural melanin pigment, leucistic birds produce melanin but can’t deposit it into their feathers and they tend to have normally colored legs, feet, bills, and eyes.
SO, what was this “white” bird seen in Yardley? Based on the description and photos, I believe this was an albino house finch although the eyes in the photo appear black and not the expected pale pink or red color.
Be on the lookout for strange or unusual bird/wildlife sightings. Take photos if possible. And do let us know what you have found.
And above all, Be Respectful of Nature!!
Wilbur B. Amand, VMD