Abstract
The first case of leucism in the Kerguelen Shag Leucocarbo verrucosus was observed on Mayes Island, Kerguelen Archipelago, in the southern Indian Ocean between October 2021 and November 2022. The individual exhibited extensive white plumage with scattered black feathers while maintaining normal eye pigmentation, consistent with leucism rather than albinism. Despite exhibiting typical behavior and social interactions, no breeding activity was recorded. This observation highlights the occurrence of pigment abnormalities in sub-Antarctic seabirds and underscores the importance of continued monitoring to better understand their ecological or genetic implications.
DOI
http://doi.org/10.5038/2074-1235.54.1.1685
Recommended Citation
Guille, Kevin
(2026)
"First record of leucism in Kerguelen Shag Leucocarbo verrucosus,"
Marine Ornithology: Vol. 54
:
Iss.
1
, Article 13.
http://doi.org/10.5038/2074-1235.54.1.1685
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/marine_ornithology/vol54/iss1/13