Animals

From Aark Wildlife

This bird is 1 in 30,000...

This robin with albinism was admitted when the rescuers were worried it had an injury. It appeared healthy during the exam except for some visual impairment. Vision issues are usually linked with albinism, so it's possible this robin is only seeing shadows.

Right now, the bird is doing well and is growing as a baby bird should, but he likely will not be released due to his poor eyesight.

Albinism in baby birds is very uncommon even though a few have popped up in our area this year. Raven Ridge Wildlife Center recently admitted an albino cardinal!

Albinism is a genetic condition that impairs the production of melanin in the body resulting in white plumage. It typically comes with red eyes and visual impairment. Although it may seem that a white animal would be easily picked off by predators, albino animals are able to survive in the wild. If not for this robin's eyesight issues, we would release him once he is mature. 🤍