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Jackdaw Jackson a real 'Thriller'
20.07.10
by Linda McGrory
An "exceptionally rare" albino jackdaw is ruffling a
few feathers in Inishowen. Dubbed 'Jackson' by
locals, the unnaturally white bird was born earlier
this year in Buncrana and is becoming a bit of a
Thriller around the local housing estates.
Local bird-watcher Martin Moloney said Jackson was
becoming a firm favourite among local adults and
children alike.
"The bird was born this year and is completely white
with pink-coloured legs,
beak and eyes. People thought it was a dove, at
first. It is a beautiful sight and is also quite
rare," he said.
"I would guess it is only about six weeks old
because it is still begging food from the older
birds." Mr Moloney said Jackson is now holding its
own among the local jackdaw population.
"At first, the others picked on it a bit, but it
pecked back and has been left alone since. The
locals are enjoying having it around and are
throwing it out bread to eat." |
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Birdwatch Ireland
development officer, Niall Hatch, said the jackdaw's
albinism was caused by a genetic mutation.
"Albinism is caused by a genetic mutation and the
survival rate tends to be lower because they are so
visible to predators and are also susceptible to
blindness because their pink eyes don't have
ultraviolet protection," said Mr Hatch.
He said an albino bird’s feathers also tend to be
softer and weaker because of the absence of the
melanin pigment.
Mr Hatch said while his organisation had received a
similar report earlier this year from Co Kerry, the
occurrence was "exceptionally rare".
"A jackdaw's life span can be between eight and ten
years but an albino bird is unlikely to survive that
long."
Meanwhile, Martin Moloney, who is also an
experienced falconer, said Jackson's fate could
already be sealed. "Sadly, I don't think he'll last
that long and my guess is that a sparrowhawk will
get him." |
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