First Record of Leucistic Jungle Babbler (<i>Turdoides striata</i>) from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

Leucism is a genetic trait caused by a lack of melanin pigment in an animal’s skin, feathers, or fur. Unlike albinism, which is defined by a total lack of melanin synthesis, leucism is characterised by a partial loss of pigmentation. The definitions of leucism and various aspects of albinism are exceedingly vague. This very first documented report of a leucistic Jungle Babbler (Turdoides striata) in Northern India was made in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. More study is needed to look at the additional places of occurrence of these leucistic individuals, as well as the genetic basis of leucism in Jungle Babblers.

Keywords

• Leucism
• melanin
• jungle babbler
• lucknow