Is this a white headed Blackbird?

[fulhamphil]

Hi while out at regents park yesterday i came across this, what i can only describe, white headed Blackbird, am i right to assume this? sorry the photo is poor i could'nt get too close through fear of it flying off.l[

[Jenny W]

Yes it is. Blackbirds are one of a few species that can fairly often display varying degrees of white in their plumage - from fully albino to just a few odd white feathers.

[FUDGEY]

It might be a ring ouzel with a big ring :-). I like albinos. I've seen white pied wags, blackbirds, great tit and I have a fantastic picture of a local buzzard that's almost pure White, but it's not albino it's a term I can't remember the word that changes pigments in feather colour or something. I'll upload when I know how. There's also a White red kite at my local feeding station.

[Tracey.A]

Yes it is an odd looking adult male blackbird. I've never seen one quite like yours though. I've only ever seen some with some white plumage, so to see one with a white head is a lucky find.

Tracey

[debbiethomson]

What an amazing bird!

My son was desperate to see that white Red Kite when we went to that feeding station.

Debbie

[Tracey.A]

I've read about the white Kite, apparently is gets mobbed by it's own kind, poor thing

Tracey

[andywolves]

You may (or may not!!) find this an interesting read:

Leucistic Birds have you seen any ?

Andy

[FUDGEY]

I have not been up to look for it yet debbie, but I will soon. Are you local to the station in laurieston? The kites had a fantastic breeding season last year, long may it continue. Looks like ospreys are increasing now too, more great news.

[debbiethomson]

Fudgey-we're miles and miles away (Cambridgeshire) but we came up that way last summer and hope to come back again this year.

Debbie

[FUDGEY]

well if you want to see the osprey nest ( top secret at mo) or any other rare birds in the area let me know and I'll take you and the family to them no problem.