an update on the little albino turkey vulture

The "little white girl", as she is being called around here, is doing quite well. She has gained some much needed pounds and is rather enjoying her free daily meals of rodent, quail, chicken and beef heart. She snuggles onto her heated perch each night and has been seen bathing in the large water tubby on warm and sunny days. She seems to have picked out her most favorite roosting areas, napping areas and the best places to sit in the sun and preen. She and her "roommate" Doolin are getting along although Doolin is still quite fascinated by her....probably wondering what the heck she is.

This little girl will not be a candidate for release. Most albino animals have compromised immune systems coupled with physical disabilities. It is quite evident that she has a vision problem which is probably why she was unable to migrate south last fall. Her near-sighted vision makes it difficult and dangerous to attempt long flights. We will continue to rehabilitate her well into the spring or early summer before making any decisions for permanent placement.

She is a real sweetie pie and so very cute with her pink eyes, pink talons, pink face and beautiful white and buffy feathers.