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Leucistic Savannah Sparrow

Posted on Oct 21, 2015

This appears to be a partially leucistic Savannah Sparrow, a migrant individual that I was surprised by yesterday morning. Leucism is when pigments are produced at less than normal levels or in an unexpected pattern. In this case many of the feathers on the head and throat do not have typical pigmentation. Interestingly the yellow patch on the face can still be seen, giving this unique bird an all the more fascinating look.

Leucistic Savannah Sparrow Stratford Community Gardens-4250

Scott Kruitbosch
Conservation & Outreach Coordinator