Rare and Beautiful: Can Leucistic Cardinals Be Found in Kentucky?

Check out this rare white cardinal spotted in North Carolina. Known as leucistic cardinals, these striking birds are a rare phenomenon, with their pale feathers caused by a genetic condition that affects pigment production. The question on every birdwatcher's mind: can these elusive birds be spotted in Kentucky too?

Bird watching has become a beautiful way for me to honor my mom and keep her passion for nature alive. The colors, sounds, and bird movements fascinate me, and I’ve even gathered a large book to help identify different species and learn about their habits. There are so many tools out there for bird watchers, whether you're just starting or an experienced enthusiast, and I’ve come to appreciate them even more since my mom’s passing.

Get our free mobile app

The last time I saw her, she told me, “When you see a cardinal, think of me.” And I do. Now, whenever I spot one, it feels like a quiet reminder of her love for nature and the joy she found in it. Her passion for birds will always live on through me.

HOW RARE IS THE LEUCISTIC CARDINAL?

I find a white cardinal fascinating! White or leucistic cardinals are incredibly rare and a beautiful sight to see. The genetic condition that causes the lack of pigment gives them a unique, almost ethereal appearance. It’s amazing how they retain some color, unlike albino birds, whose lack of pigment results in completely white feathers and pink eyes. To spot one of these rare birds is a special experience. Recently, it happened in North Carolina. Have you ever spotted a leucistic cardinal in your yard?

I had one in Mississippi two years ago. It came with its mate for a year or two. - Jane Dennis Grantham

CAN LEUCISTIC CARDINALS BE FOUND IN KENTUCKY?

Although the rare leucistic cardinal has been spotted nationwide, how often can they be seen in Kentucky? Leucistic Northern Cardinals, characterized by partial albinism leading to white or patchy feathers, are rare but have been observed in Kentucky. While sightings are uncommon, they do occur sporadically across the state. For instance, in July 2020, a female leucistic cardinal was reported in Falls of Rough, Kentucky, according to Project Feeder Watch. I would be so excited if I spotted one!

I'd be even more excited if I spotted a rare yellow cardinal.

Becky Hart-Moots was lucky enough to capture this photo in North Carolina. #jealous

ARE YELLOW CARDINALS SPOTTED IN KENTUCKY?

I can't even imagine seeing a yellow cardinal! A yellow cardinal is even rarer than the leucistic variety. Yellow cardinals are typically a result of a genetic mutation that causes the red feathers of the northern cardinal to turn yellow. It would be a once-in-a-lifetime birdwatching moment! My mom would be so excited for me.

Have you recently spotted any rare birds? Please show us your photos!