Partially Leucistic American Kestrel (Falco sparverius), Rosemont, Pima County

This partially leucistic American Kestrel was discovered and photographed by Daniel Ginter on 01 February 2009 approximately two miles north of the Rosemont area (Northeastern end of the Santa Rita Mountains). It was seen perched along the side of highway 83 at approximately 4:10 pm.  It was seen and photographed again by Bryan Holliday on 08 February 2009. 

Identification of leucisitic or albino birds can be very tricky. Size and shape indicate this is a small falcon. The undertail pattern is that of a male American Kestrel, but it could be a partial tail pattern of a Merlin as well. The best clue here is behavior. Kestrels routinely perch on wires whereas Merlins rarely do.

01 February 2009, photo by Daniel Ginter

08 February 2009, photos by Bryan Holliday

All photos are copyrighted© by photographer

 

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