This leucistic Marsh Harrier is one of a pair that have been hanging out at Slimbridge WWT recently.

In leucistic birds, affected plumage lacks the cells responsible for melanin production. This means that melanin pigment – which makes feathers appear dark – is absent. Affected feathers are therefore white, unless the normal plumage colour also comprises carotenoids (e.g. yellows), which remain unaffected by the condition. On this harrier it is also noticeable it has slightly de-formed (almost platt-like to look at) secondary and primary feather tips.

Marsh Harriers are large and bulky birds of prey that feed on small waterbirds and mammals, caught in the marshes around our coasts and rivers. Made extinct in Britain by persecution in the 19th century, the current population has grown from a single breeding group in Suffolk in 1971.

In the last fifty years, the species has doubled the extent of its breeding range, extending north and west with occasional pairs reaching Scotland.

My thanks to anyone who views, faves or comments on any of my photos. It is much appreciated.

Tags:   Marsh Harrier Slimbridge WWT Leucistic

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WWT Slimbridge.

My thanks to anyone who views, faves or comments on any of my photos. It is much appreciated.

Tags:   Marsh Harrier Slimbridge WWT Marsh Harrier

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WWT Slimbridge.

My thanks to anyone who views, faves or comments on any of my photos. It is much appreciated.

Tags:   Marsh Harrier Slimbridge WWT

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Coombe Hill. Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust.

My thanks to anyone who views, faves or comments on any of my photos. It is much appreciated.

Tags:   Carrion Crow Marsh Harrier Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust Coombe Hill

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Coombe Hill. Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust.

My thanks to anyone who views, faves or comments on any of my photos. It is much appreciated.

Tags:   Marsh Harrier Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust Coombe Hill

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