Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society

06/09/2026

Avian humor from Rosemary Mosco...😆

For more, visit https://rosemarymosco.com/comics/bird-and-moon

06/08/2026

Shirley Salton shared two photos of a leucistic Robin back in May..."I saw what I think is a leucistic Robin in a nearby field yesterday. If so, I have read that only 1 in 30,000 have plumage like this. I feel fortunate to have seen it."

So what is leucism? Leucism is a genetic condition in birds caused by a mutation that prevents pigments—primarily melanin—from reaching their feathers. This results in plumage that is completely white, partially white (piebald/pied), or washed-out and pale. Unlike albinos, leucistic birds retain normal dark coloration in their eyes, bills, and legs.

Key Differences: Leucism vs. Albinism - It is very common to confuse leucistic birds with albino birds, but they are distinctly different:

Eyes and Skin: Leucistic birds have dark eyes, bills, and legs. Albino birds lack all melanin, resulting in pink or red eyes and pale, pinkish skin/bills.

Feather Strength: Melanin makes feathers strong and durable. Because leucistic feathers lack this pigment, they are weaker, prone to faster wear and tear, and may affect a bird's flight.

Survival: Pure white, leucistic birds are much more visible to predators. They may also struggle more with social mating, as normal plumage patterns are often required for species recognition and mate selection.

Common Species that Exhibit Leucism - While the condition can theoretically affect any bird species, it is most frequently documented in heavily populated, dark-feathered birds or backyard frequenters. The most common sightings include:

American Robins, House Sparrows, Crows & Ravens, Mallards, Red-tailed Hawks, and Common Grackles.

Learn more! https://www.audubon.org/magazine/how-tell-if-bird-albino

06/07/2026

Chicks abound this time of year. While most stay snug in their nests until it's time for takeoff, a few baby birds are bound to take a tumble before the season ends.

It can be distressing and baffling to come across a baby songbird on a lawn or sidewalk, but it doesn't have to be, thanks to this handy, humorous chart by artist Rosemary Mosco. And if you're still stumped after giving it a read, contact a local wildlife rehabilitation expert or your local Audubon chapter.

The DOAS website offers the following helpful info for folks seeking the help of a wildlife rehabilitator (or info on how to become one!): https://doas.us/conservation-and-environment/wildlife-rehabilitation/

Check out more of Mosco's fabulous and funny comics on her website: https://rosemarymosco.com/comics/bird-and-moon

06/06/2026

Join Charlie Scheim and Sandie Bright on Sunday, June 7 at the West Branch Nature Preserve for a bird walk starting at 8am! For all the details, visit https://doas.us/

06/05/2026

Is it possible to have too many great photos of Chestnut-sided Warblers? We don't think so! Here are some more beauties, this time from Rick Bunting. Enjoy!

06/04/2026

Curious about what Christmas Bird Count (CBC) data show? Audubon's Science team has built a tool where you can explore population trends over the last few decades!

Check it out!

Track how your favorite birds have fared over decades with our CBC trends viewer.

06/03/2026

A perky Chestnut-sided Warbler collection of photos from Sasa Lin's sharp eye.

06/02/2026

URGE CONGRESS to Advance a Conservation‑Forward Farm Bill!!!

The Farm Bill represents our country's single largest investment in conservation on private lands, and can help reverse the alarming decline of grassland and forest birds. Read more about the value of the Farm Bill for bird conservation and ask your members of Congress to pass a Farm Bill that helps birds, people, and the places we share.

Visigt the link to take ac ion:

The Farm Bill represents our country’s single largest investment in conservation on private lands, and can help reverse the alarming decline of grassland and forest birds.

06/02/2026

Seven podcast about the joys of birding!

These shows offer expert advice and fun facts that will help both novices and enthusiasts get the most out of tuning into the winged world.

06/01/2026

An assortment of sweet, non-avian creatures from Jamey Howell-McDermott's lens...
A Pickerel Frog, Snapping Turtle, Fawn, Raccoon.