Tuesday, April 17, 2018

Leucism in Animals



I've come across some interesting creatures while out with my camera!  

In the process I have learned of a term called "leucism".  Wikipedia describes it as follows: "Leucism is a condition in which there is partial loss of pigmentation in an animal resulting in white, pale, or patchy coloration of the skin, hair, feathers, scales or cuticle, but not the eyes.  Unlike albinism, it is caused by a reduction in multiple types of pigment, not just melanin."

More about leucistic birds can be learned at this site:

http://www.sibleyguides.com/2011/08/abnormal-coloration-in-birds-melanin-reduction/

Here are my photos of birds (with a couple of mammals thrown in at the end).



American Robin



Canada Goose


Slate-coloured Junco


Gray Squirrel


Raccoon