Question regarding fledgling sparrow (1 Viewer)

[Zro202]

We have a number of fledgling sparrows calling the bushes behind our apartment home presently, and I'm curious to know why one of them is not being fed by adults. It is noticeably smaller than the rest and may have partial leucism-- its wings each have bright white markings and its tail is entirely white. Is it common for adults to shun a fledgling? Is it possible they are doing so because of its appearance?

We've been putting out a separate pile of seeds for the little guy, which he happily eats, and he seems to be catching a decent number of bugs, so at the moment it seems like he may pull through. Would love to know what's going on!

 

[KC Foggin]

With the partial white feathering it is probably a leucistic Sparrow. Don't know why the parents are ignoring it but good for you for feeding it
Hi there Zro and a warm welcome to you from those of us on staff here at BirdForum
We're glad you found us and please join in wherever you like.

 

[delia todd]

Hi Zro and a warm welcome from me too.

I'm sure you will enjoy it here and I hope to hear about all the birds you see when out and about.