Rare leucistic Baudin's white-tailed black cockatoo spotted in Margaret River

Leucism is the partial loss of all pigmentation. (Supplied: Mike Collins)

A clean capture of a rare leucistic Baudin's white-tailed black cockatoo has put to rest a rumour that had been circulating among the bird lovers of Margaret River in Western Australia's South West.

Though other captures of the rare bird exist, none have been able to help confirm its species due to poor quality.

But a series of images, captured by Margaret River resident Mike Collins were sent to Birdlife Australia's Carnaby's Breeding Program coordinator, Sam Rycken, who put the rumour to rest.

"You can see in the pictures in its tail it has that big white panel with a black tip at the end, which tells me it's a white-tailed cockatoo," Dr Rycken said.

"It also has that elongated bill meaning that it is a Baudin's black cockatoo."

The bird was spotted on a property in Margaret River. (Supplied: Mike Collins)

Baudin's cockatoos are listed as a critically endangered species with estimations that as few as 10,000 remain.

Dr Rycken said the added element of leucisticism put the bird into an even rarer category.

The bird was seen among other black cockatoos. (Supplied: Mike Collins)

"It is my understanding one in every 30,000 birds have the leucistic gene," Dr Rycken said.

"So you could say this one is definitely one of a kind."

Leucism is known to be caused by a genetic mutation that prevents pigment from developing.

A rare black cockatoo with mottled yellow plumage perches in a gum tree in Bunbury. (ABC South West: Anthony Pancia)

Dr Rycken said the condition could result in affected birds being ostracised from flocks.

"They can be more susceptible to predators and in some cases won't be able to mate because partners are averse to a bird with colouration like that," Dr Rycken said.

"It can result in weaker feathers and, in extreme circumstances, hinder flight."

Camera at the ready

Mr Collins said he had seen the bird several times before managing to capture a good image.

Mike Collins says the bird is not camera shy. (ABC South West: Anthony Pancia)

"The first time I got a bit of a surprise and didn't know what it was, even though it was among other black cockatoos," Mr Collins said.

"I tried to get some shots but it flew up into a tree and all I got were blurry white pictures, a bit like a Loch Ness monster type of thing."

Mr Collins says he has his camera at the ready for any future sightings. (ABC South West: Anthony Pancia)

When it reappeared a week later at the base of his birdbath, Mr Collins found himself at the ready.

"It showed up a week or two later,"  Mr Collins said.

"Because the bird bath is just outside my lounge room, I have the camera on stand-by to catch any birds splashing around so I had it ready to go."