The White Fulmar

While exploring the cliffs of Grímsey Island in North Iceland, we were treated to an extraordinary and rare sight—a leucistic northern fulmar gliding silently along the edge of the sea. Among the thousands of slate-grey and white fulmars wheeling above the waves, this one stood out immediately. Almost entirely pale cream, with ghostly wings and a soft golden wash in the evening light, it looked like a bird made of cloud.

Leucism is a rare genetic condition that affects pigmentation, resulting in reduced or patchy colouring in feathers, skin, or fur. Unlike albinism, which affects melanin production entirely and often includes red eyes, leucistic animals retain normal eye colour and can show some muted patterns. In fulmars, which are typically uniform in colour, seeing such a pale individual is incredibly unusual.

We watched in awe as it soared alongside its more typical counterparts, catching the updrafts along the cliffs with effortless grace. It was a surreal moment—like spotting a myth in flight. Sightings like this are not only scientifically fascinating, but deeply moving. In a place already known for its wild beauty and seabird drama, this ghostly fulmar reminded us how nature still holds secrets that can stop us in our tracks.