Hi Bee, I think that this is a "leucistic" Common Grackle. Here is a cut and paste from Wikipedia on leucism- Leucism is a condition characterized by reduced pigmentation in animals. Unlike albinism, it is caused by a reduction in all types of skin pigment, not just melanin.
I agree with Dan. You sometimes see crows with some white feathers, and other species as well.
There is also a form of reduced (not lack of) pigmentation called "Isabelline". This is characterised by the normally dark parts having a buffy, beige colour. Here is an Isabelline form of the Gentoo Penguin from Cuverville Island, Antarctica, 1 December 2003. The buffy areas of the plumage should be black.
The derivation of the term Isabelline is controversial. Google it and see what you get! I can explain if you don't some up with anything.
Gentleman,
Thanks for the help with the odd grackle. I was hoping that it was a rare white bellied black grackle that had not been seen in the world since 1729.......
DARN!
I know Bee but I did want you to know that even though you don't have a "new" species you do indeed have a rare observation, and to get an image of the bird is icing on the cake as they say!
Grackle varient?
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