*Problems With Bird Leucism*

While leucism can be unusual and exciting for a birder to see, birds with
the condition face special challenges in the wild. Lighter plumage may rob
the birds of protective camouflage and make them more vulnerable to
predators such as hawks and feral cats. Because plumage colors play an
important role in courtship rituals, birds with leucism may be unable to
find strong, healthy mates. Melanin is also an important structural
component of feathers, and birds with extensive leucism have weaker
feathers that will wear out more swiftly, making flight more difficult and
eliminating some of the bird’s insulation against harsh weather. White
feathers also reflect heat more efficiently, which can be fatal for birds
that rely on sunbathing and solar radiation for heat in northern climates.

Because so many birders rely on plumage colors and patterns for bird
identification, seeing an unusual bird with lighter colors or white patches
can initially be confusing. By understanding what leucism is and how it can
affect birds, birders can better appreciate the great variety of avian life
they see.