What are the white spots on hummingbirds?

Hummingbirds are known for their bright, iridescent plumage that shimmers in the sunlight. However, some hummingbirds also have small white spots on their feathers. These spots are perfectly natural and nothing to be concerned about.

What causes the white spots?

The white spots, called leucisms, are caused by a partial loss of pigmentation in the feathers. Just as people can have birthmarks due to a lack of skin pigment, birds can have white spots due to a lack of melanin in some of their feathers.

Leucism is different from albinism, which is a complete lack of pigmentation. In leucism, only some of the feathers are affected, while in albinism there is an absence of all melanin. Albino birds have much more extensive white plumage.

Why do the spots occur?

There are a few possible reasons leucistic spots may appear on a hummingbird’s feathers:

• Genetic mutation – A random genetic mutation could prevent melanin from developing properly in a small cluster of feathers.
• Injury – Some kind of trauma or damage to the follicles of developing feathers could cause depigmentation.
• Dietary deficiency – Not getting sufficient nutrients needed to produce melanin pigment during molting.
• Stress – High levels of stress hormones during feather growth could inhibit melanin production.

In most cases, the cause is likely a genetic mutation or temporary nutritional deficiency. The spots are not harmful to the bird or a sign of disease.

Do the spots affect the hummingbird?

The white spots do not cause hummingbirds any health problems or affect their ability to fly and feed normally. Here are some key points about how the spots impact the birds:

• The spots are not painful or sensitive – They are just a lack of pigment.
• They do not make the bird weaker or more vulnerable.
• Their vision and flight capabilities are unaffected.
• Their metabolism and appetite are normal.
• There is no difference in lifespan compared to spotless hummingbirds.
• They are able to mate and reproduce just as successfully.

In terms of behavior and abilities, spotted hummingbirds are essentially identical to their spotless counterparts. The only difference is their appearance.

Do the spots go away?

In most cases, the white spots remain for the lifespan of the hummingbird. Since feathers are replaced regularly through molting, sometimes spots will disappear if they were caused by temporary nutritional stress or damage. However, if the depigmentation is due to a genetic mutation, the new feathers will likely be spotted as well. Here is some information on the persistence of spots:

• Spots from mutations remain for life.
• Injury-related spots may disappear after the next molt.
• Dietary spots often resolve once nutrition is improved.
• Stress spots may vanish when hormone levels return to normal.
• Spots generally do not spread or increase in number as the bird ages.
• Completely new spot patterns may emerge after molting.

So while some individuals may regain their full color after molting, most spotted hummingbirds maintain their unique pattern of white feathers long-term.

Are the spots more common in certain species?

Leucistic spots can appear on any species of hummingbird, but they are more frequently observed on these particular types:

In particular, Rufous and black-chinned hummingbirds appear to be predisposed to developing spotting patterns. However, any species can potentially have leucistic plumage.

Are the white spots harmful to the hummingbird?

No, the white spots do not negatively impact the health of hummingbirds in any way. Here are some details on why the spots are harmless:

• The depigmentation is purely cosmetic and does not indicate sickness.
• Their energy and metabolism are unaffected.
• There are no issues with temperature regulation.
• The spots do not cause pain, irritation, or sensitivity.
• Hummingbirds with spots thrive just as well in the wild.
• Predators do not specifically target spotted hummingbirds.
• Their feeding habits remain normal and healthy.
• Lifespan and reproduction are not impaired.

In terms of survival and fitness, spotted hummingbirds have no disadvantages compared to their normally pigmented peers. Birders do not need to be concerned about the wellbeing of leucistic hummingbirds they spot in the wild.

Should I report spotted hummingbirds to researchers?

While leucistic hummingbirds used to be considered rare novelties, they are now being observed frequently enough that reporting is no longer critical for research purposes. However, you can report sightings of unusually patterned hummingbirds through these citizen science programs:

• eBird – Online database of bird observations.
• Leucism in Hummingbirds – Tracking leucistic hummingbird sightings.
• Project FeederWatch – Feeder bird counting project through the Cornell Lab.

Contributing observations helps scientists monitor these unique plumage variations over time. But for common isolated spotting, reporting is optional.

Key Takeaways

• White spots on hummingbirds are called leucisms and caused by lost pigment.
• Spots may persist for life or disappear after molting depending on the cause.
• Leucistic spots do not harm the bird or affect its health and survival.
• Though reporting spotted hummingbirds can be helpful, it is optional.
• The spots are a cosmetic condition and not a sign of disease in hummingbirds.

So in summary, bird lovers do not need to worry about the wellbeing of spotted hummingbirds! The white spots are simply a natural plumage variation that gives some hummingbirds a unique speckled appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do some hummingbirds have white tails?

In addition to spotting, some hummingbird species like Allen’s and rufous can have white outer tail feathers. This is also caused by leucism – a lack of melanin pigment. White tail feathers are very common in these species and not a cause for concern.

Can the spots spread to more feathers over time?

In most cases, the spot pattern remains consistent and does not spread significantly as the bird ages. However, with nutritional deficiencies, the number and size of spots may increase with successive molts until diet improves.

Do the spots make hummingbirds weaker fliers?

There is no evidence that the spots impact hummingbird flight or stamina. They can hover and migrate normally. Their energy output and metabolism are unaffected by leucistic plumage.

Are spotted hummingbirds less able to evade predators?

Research has not shown that predators specifically target hummingbirds with leucistic spots. The white feathers provide camouflage in some settings rather than making the birds more conspicuous.

Can you tell the sex of a spotted hummingbird by its markings?

Unfortunately the presence, size, number and pattern of white spots are not reliable indicators of sex in hummingbirds. The only way to be certain is to observe sexually dimorphic plumage traits like gorgets.

Conclusion

In summary, small white spots on a hummingbird’s head, wings or tail feathers are perfectly normal leucistic markings. These spots do not hurt the bird or prevent it from thriving in the wild. There is no need to intervene or rescue spotted hummingbirds. Birders should enjoy witnessing these uniquely patterned hummingbirds visiting their feeders and gardens!