Albinism in animals

Posted by Anita Froneman on 28 October 2019

For some reason, people are fascinated by anything that is outside the norm. Some cherish and celebrate it, some reel back and reject it. In the case of albinism in the animal kingdom, nature is not kind to her children for making them different, nor are some humans to these colourless species.

Albinism is a genetic disease that inhibits the production of melanin, the natural pigment responsible for the colour of skin, hair, fur and eyes. As in humans, this condition results in animals being stark white all over, with pinkish features and very light eyes. However, it is very rare and means that albino animals are especially vulnerable in nature. It is important, though, to distinguish albinos from animals that are just naturally very light, or suffer from another disease, but do not necessarily suffer from albinism.

Because the whiteness of these animals are so sharply contrasted with their fellows, they are seen as exotic and are oftentimes hunted and killed to be sold to collectors, or natural healers that believe they possess special powers. They are also easy prey in the wild, because they can’t hide as well from predators and are more vulnerable to the harmful rays of the sun. Sometimes, they are even abandoned by their parents or communities because they are different, or have trouble finding mates. This means that albinos often don’t make it past their early years.

Still, they are beautiful. Take a look at different albino animals that have been photographed.

 

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Image: Instagram/ Cutealbinoanimals

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