American Goldfinch, leucistic

           This bird, we call the “ghost", because it really stands out in our woods this winter. What I have read about Leucism ;“ It is a genetic mutation that prevents melanin and other pigments from being deposited normally on feathers, resulting in pale or muted colors on the entire bird."
      The lighter color on the bird makes it stand out more to predators. Also not having the right color it will make it harder for this bird to find a strong mate. If a bird has a large amount of melanin in its feathers, it will make their feathers weaker and they will wear out faster. It will be harder for the bird to stay warmer in cold weather and to fly like it should.
​      I sure hope this bird makes it through the winter months here in KY.