Common Redpoll Hoary Redpoll Note color of rump. American Goldfinch Pine Warbler Note bill shape, behavior. Wintering hummingbirds Note that several species are possible, even in the Southeast. For example, you might see a bird that looks like a House Finch with a white cap. Most likely it really is a House Finch that is partially albino.
Many common birds can have color variations.
Some color variations, such as albinism, are caused by a bird's genetic make-up. Other color variations, such as yellow feathers, usually are caused by birds' diets. Remember that size, shape, and behavior can help you identify a bird whose plumage looks odd. Check to see if a bird with unusual plumage is otherwise like nearby birds that you can identify. One possibile explanation for this phenomenon is molting, which is the regular replacement of feathers.