Leucistic Ruby-throated Hummingbird in Chatham Co., NC

This near-albino leucistic (abnormally white) hummingbird was photographed by Renee Underwood in her yard in Chatham Co., NC in August 2005.

White hummingbirds are very rare, but have been seen in the area before. In August 2003, Bill Hilton banded an albino hummingbird in Chapel Hill. See his site for more on white hummingbirds, including the difference between true albino and leucistic (partial albino) birds.

All photographs and text ©2013 by Will Cook unless otherwise noted.