An observation of a partially albinistic zenaida macroura (Mourning Dove)

Southeastern Naturalist
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Abstract

Abstract Three of the 4 forms of albinism that occur in avifauna have been detected in Zenaida macroura (Mourning Dove). Albinism is rare in this species, and the incidence rate of each age and sex cohort is not well known. Consequently, we examined the pigmentation of Mourning Doves encountered in the Coastal Plain of South Carolina, and classified the age and sex of all individuals. One adult male Mourning Dove had unusually light coloration of some feathers and the upper mandible. This pigmentation is consistent with partial albinism. This was the only individual out of 10,749 examined that appeared to be albinistic. This low incidence rate of albinism supports the conclusion that this condition is relatively rare in Mourning Doves (Mirarchi 1993).
Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title An observation of a partially albinistic zenaida macroura (Mourning Dove)
Series title Southeastern Naturalist
DOI 10.1656/058.010.0117
Volume 10
Issue 1
Year Published 2011
Language English
Larger Work Type Article
Larger Work Subtype Journal Article
Larger Work Title Southeastern Naturalist
First page 185
Last page 188
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