I spotted this albino Tricolored Heron at Smith Oaks rookery on High Island, Texas in 2007. This is the second, distinct, albino Tricolored Heron to be seen at Smith Oaks rookery in two years. This is possibly one of the offspring of last year's mated pair of albino male and normal female, though it seems unlikely to mature that fast, or a sibling of the male from 2006. The first albino I spotted was full albino. This particular bird has just a few 'normal' feathers in its plumage. My understanding of albinism is that molt doesn't change the feathers that show pigment, nor does it jump from full to partial albino. I guess I'll go for the hat trick this spring.
All comments welcome. Thanks for looking.
Canon 1D MkIIN; 500mm f/4 + 2x TC
ISO 200
Manual meter for 1/320 @ f/11
Way wicked. Please send one to FL! Not only a great bird but a lovely image as well.
later and love, artie
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