Found in a small feral flock in Hawaii, this Patagonian Conure has all the hallmarks of a blue mutation – no green, yellow, or red coloration can be observed on its feathers. However, rather than having fully blue plumage like a normal Blue mutant, the typical olive feathers of a Patagonian Conure make the body gray instead. A similar effect can be seen in Gray-green vs Gray mutation parrots. Additionally, the flight feathers are teal while the belly, thighs, and vent are white.
The appearance of this mutation is almost certainly connected to the inbreeding that had to occur within the small island population. Interestingly, the blue coloration may prove useful when camouflaging against the cliffs where they nest.
| Images |
| 1. doc_domeier |
