Date: 5/30/25 6:40 pm From: James Ward <darthgeek.jw...> Subject: [cobirds] Leucistic Blue Grosbeak?
I attached two photos of what looks to me to be a leucistic Blue Grosbeak.
Prior to sending this email, I consulted with ChatGPT on what she thinks.
Does AI make sense for birding questions?
Thanks!
Jim Ward, <darthgeek.jw...>
*ChatGPT response:*
"This bird does appear to be a Blue Grosbeak (Passerina caerulea), but with
highly unusual coloration.
Here’s what stands out:
- The bird has typical Blue Grosbeak structure: large, conical bill;
stocky body; and thick dark feathering.
- It shows blue patches on the face and underparts, which is consistent
with a male Blue Grosbeak.
- However, the rest of the plumage is much duller or brownish-tan rather
than the vibrant deep blue typical of a fully mature male. The wings show
strong contrast but not the usual rich rufous wingbars.
- The coloration appears patchy, suggesting an abnormal pigment
condition.
Likely Explanation:
This is probably a partially leucistic Blue Grosbeak or a hybrid/variant
with an unusual molt or feather pigmentation issue. Leucism can cause
irregular patches of normal and pale coloration, and that’s consistent with
what’s seen here. It’s not a textbook leucistic example (which usually has
much more white or pale), but leucism manifests in a wide range.
Alternatively, this could be:
- A young male molting into adult plumage (but the bill and body size
suggest full maturity).
- A diet or health-related pigment disorder during feather development.
Summary:
Yes, this is very likely a Blue Grosbeak with an unusual pigmentation
condition—probably a mild or irregular case of leucism. It’s a rare but
documented phenomenon in many bird species.
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