Amit Mane, Akash Patil and Prabhashini Mohapatra

Leucism is a genetic anomaly characterised by reduced amount of melanin pigment in the skin, feathers, or fur of animals. This research article highlights the first recorded observation of a leucistic Jungle Babbler Argya striata in the buffer zone of Sahyadri Tiger Reserve in the northern Western Ghats, India. This finding is significant due to the lack of previous documentation of leucism for this species in this region.
The team observed the first recorded instance of a leucistic jungle babbler while following established bird trails at Monarch Eco Resort, in Sonawade village. The Sonawade village is located at a distance of approx. 2 km from the Sahyadri tiger reserve, in the Shahuwadi Taluka of Kolhapur District of Maharashtra State, India. 
This rare sighting of the leucistic jungle babbler was identified through its distinct white colouration of the plumage, strikingly in contrast to the typical ash-brown plumage of the species. The record adds valuable data to our understanding of leucism in jungle babblers and also highlights the importance of monitoring bird trails to document and preserve avian biodiversity.
High-resolution photographs and detailed field notes confirm the documentation of the leucistic jungle babbler. The observation emphasises the importance of conservation efforts to preserve genetic diversity and protect habitats vital for such rare avian individuals.
 

DOI: 10.22271/23940522.2024.v11.i6a.1052

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