So appreciate what you share. Very interesting the pale colour. Last year I watched a bald headed cardinal visit my feeder frequently. I had never seen s cardinal with no head feathers before.
I have never seen a cardinal that color. If I had to guess, I’d say it is a genetic mutation. Even his beak seems pale. Also a possibility, maybe, is that this bird is a hybrid of a cardinal and the Pyrrhuloxia. Cardhuloxia. I read there were some at the Desert Museum. Their territories overlap in Arizona.
BTW, my home state is Illinois and, yes, indeed, that’s our official state bird.
It is very strange. Not sure who else might be interested and could follow up. The very experienced bird guide, whose home was where the bird was seen, has never seen that particular bird.
He is a beautiful boy, I think he is demonstrating that everyone looks great in pink!
Congrats on the fund raising- impressive
Thank you Katrina. So many good people shared in our work. And that Cardinal was fascinating to see.
We love our cardinals and their song!
Thank you. They are special.
It sure did. I had no idea the head was black so it looked so odd
So appreciate what you share. Very interesting the pale colour. Last year I watched a bald headed cardinal visit my feeder frequently. I had never seen s cardinal with no head feathers before.
Thank you. When those birds molt their feathers they can have bald spots like what you describe. It can look so unusual!!!
I have never seen a cardinal that color. If I had to guess, I’d say it is a genetic mutation. Even his beak seems pale. Also a possibility, maybe, is that this bird is a hybrid of a cardinal and the Pyrrhuloxia. Cardhuloxia. I read there were some at the Desert Museum. Their territories overlap in Arizona.
BTW, my home state is Illinois and, yes, indeed, that’s our official state bird.
Thanks Debra. That's an interesting possibility.
Verrry strange. I guess leucism could be the cause. I wonder where you could send the photo for further expert consideration?
It is very strange. Not sure who else might be interested and could follow up. The very experienced bird guide, whose home was where the bird was seen, has never seen that particular bird.
Cardinals then more cardinals, clever! 🙏😂😎
Way cool!!
Nice post!
Great photos, and thanks for the information! Certainly learned something new.
Thanks Gillian
Fabulous pictures and story line!
Very cool, special bird! :)
thanks