Rare White Crow in Misamis Oriental Captivates Nationwide Attention

A striking photograph of a white crow from Jasaan, Misamis Oriental has captured the fascination of people across the Philippines. This unusual sighting, documented by bird photographer Jun Rey Yap, represents one of the rare occurrences of albinism in wild birds.

Yap, based in Cagayan de Oro, traveled to Jasaan in response to online reports about the rare white-feathered crow. He expressed the significance of such sightings for wildlife photographers, stating, "When we see something rare, it is very special for us."

The bird, however, is not a new resident of the area. It was originally found injured in 2020 by the Ebalang family, who have since cared for it. Orvelle Ebalang shared that his son Jaybert first spotted the crow in the fields, injured and vulnerable. Instead of leaving it, Jaybert climbed a tree, retrieved the bird, and brought it home where the family treated and nursed it.

Attempts to release the crow back into the wild were unsuccessful, as it continually returned to the family’s home. "Even when it flew far away, it came back to our house," Orvelle Ebalang recounted.

The crow has since become a local attraction in Jasaan, drawing photographers, vloggers, and residents eager to see the rare bird. Similar white crows have been documented in the region before, including one in Villanueva in 2014, indicating that such occurrences, while unusual, are not isolated in Misamis Oriental.

Wildlife biologist Jay Fidelino explained that the bird’s pure white feathers result from albinism, a genetic condition that inhibits melanin production—the pigment responsible for the black coloration typical of crows. "It’s a very rare phenomenon," Fidelino said.

Albinism not only affects the bird’s appearance but also its survival prospects in the wild. The lack of camouflage increases vulnerability to predators, and albino birds often face vision impairment and social rejection within their flocks. These challenges may explain the crow’s dependence on the Ebalang family.

This remarkable case highlights the rich biodiversity present even in small communities and the vital role humans play in wildlife conservation. Beyond its viral fame, the white crow serves as an example of genetic variation in nature and the positive impact of compassionate human intervention.

Ultimately, the story of the Jasaan white crow is one of empathy and care—a young boy’s decision to save an injured bird and a family’s ongoing commitment to its wellbeing have created a unique symbol of wonder and conservation in the Philippines.