Friday, December 27, 2024

December 27, 2024

I am a partially leucistic Turkey Vulture
That means my colors aren't quite right. 
If I were albino, I'd have no melanin (pigmentation) at all
But instead it's just one wing that is partially white.

As described in the linked article, "... leucism [is] the partial loss of all types of pigmentation, including carotenoids. Leucism causes white coloration, white patches, spots, or splotches on the skin or fur. Leucism is also discernible from albinism because leucism does not affect the pigment cells in the eyes."

Location: Goodwin Waterfowl Management Area, Fellsmere

Sources: https://www.nps.gov/cabr/blogs/albinism-versus-leucism-in-the-wild-and-at-our-parks.htm

Photo and text © 2024 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

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