Although very rare, albino animals—or animals born with a congenital defect that prevents colour pigment from reaching their skin, fur, and eyes—are totally breathtaking.
Want proof? Read on to learn more about albinism in animals, and check out these super stunning (and rare) albino animals in nature.
It’s important to understand what causes albinism—and why it makes these animals so valuable to poachers and predators alike.
Albinism is a congenital disease that causes the partial or complete loss of pigmentation (or color) in an animal.
Beginning in utero, certain genetic mutations prevent the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the development of skin, fur, and eye color.
Because these animals don’t have any melanin, they can have an all-white appearance, often with pinkish or very pale blue eyes.
Every animal makes melanin—from mice, to koalas, to human beings—so, accordingly, any animal can have albinism.
Although albino animals are beautiful, their unique appearance makes survival in the wild difficult. Here’s why:
Their rare, all-white or pale skins and coats are treasured by poachers around the world.
They lack camouflage, making them easier targets for natural predators in the wild.
They can be rejected by their families, social groups, and mates, due to their distinctly different appearances.
Unsurprisingly, albino animals fare far better in captivity, where they can be protected from both poachers and predators.
Credit: news.phxfeeds.com
