A Cassin's finch exhibiting albinism in Casper. (Zach Hutchinson/Flocking Around)

It’s not unusual to spot a Cassin’s finch, which spends most of its time high in the mountains, flitting in Wyoming’s lowlands this time of year. But it’s a special treat to spot an albino version.

Casper birder Zach Hutchinson discovered a pair of the species — both adult males — in his backyard recently and was delighted at the opportunity to observe the contrasting plumage.

“Seeing this species exhibiting albinism is a special sight,” Hutchinson told WyoFile via email. “This is not terribly common in wildlife, as often these animals have associated health issues or are at greater risk from predators and weather conditions.”

A Cassin’s finch spotted in Casper in spring 2024. (Zach Hutchinson/Flocking Around)

To avoid flushing the birds, Hutchinson remained indoors and shot these images through a pane of glass. The encounter was brief but helped fuel his anticipation for spotting migratory birds on the move this spring. The “early singers are in full bloom,” Hutchinson said. “It’s my favorite time of year.”

Dustin Bleizeffer covers energy and climate at WyoFile. He has worked as a coal miner, an oilfield mechanic, and for more than 25 years as a statewide reporter and editor primarily covering the energy...

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  1. Albinism, leucism, whatever. Great pictures Zach. Your windows must be cleaner than mine. Looks like you have some new fans.

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  2. This Cassin’s finch is not displaying albinism since there is color in the birds eyes. Where some of the color is missing in the bird’s feathers the term for this in is Leucism resulting from defects in pigment cells. Leucism can result in some feathers without color pigment showing white or if the feather has multiple colors the one affected color pigment would be white

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  4. What a great way to start the day, reading about beautiful finches in a wintry Casper spring. And one exhibiting albinism! Lovely. Thanks for that, Mr. Bleizeffer.

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