Albino Animals
Albino animals
Albino animals are seen as vulnerable members of their species. This is due to their inability to blend with their surroundings, making them vulnerable to predators. Some species, such as birds and reptiles, are subject to partial albinism where only patches of their skin are affected.
Some species are intentionally bred and are used for scientific experimentation to study albinism. Many species have red eyes, which is due to the number of blood vessels that are retained in the retinal area.
Misconceptions Regarding Albino Animals
An albino animal is often labeled as exotic. While they are rare, most species are quite common. When an albino animal is documented, it makes them more valuable and more desirable to pet owners. Many believe that an albino animal has to be all white and have red eyes.
This is not the case with all species. Some have streaks or patches of pigment. In frogs, birds and some amphibians, streaks or patches of color is actually rather common. Not all species will have red eyes either as blood vessels and cells do not always take over the area behind the retina.
Albino Gorilla
There has only been one albino Gorilla documented. It was brought to the Barcelona Zoo in Spain to be kept safe and was on display for visitors to view. Snowflake, the albino gorilla, lived for 39 years. His breed was Western Lowland Gorilla. All others of this breed have been charcoal in color, including his mother.
It was found to be rather odd that this Gorilla, who lacked pigment and melanin, fathered 22 offspring and none, were albino. Even the offspring of those fathered by Snowflake was not albino. It was also rare that a gorilla would live to be this age as most only live to the age of 25.
When this gorilla was captured, it was the intention of Jordi Sabater Pi to ensure that Snowflake was put into a protective living situation, such as that at the zoo where he lived his life. Pi was mesmerized by the light blue color of the gorilla’s eyes and the fact that he functioned and resembled a normal gorilla but lacked the true color.
Other than sensitivity to light and the development of skin cancer, everything about this gorilla was true to the species. The reason for albinism in this particular gorilla is still unknown.
Albino Snakes
Partial albinism is more common than absolute albinism in snakes. This is a case where melanin and pigment delivery from genetic mutation is present. For snakes that are generally patterned in color, a faint blue, peach or yellowish coloring is often noted.
The classification comes from the inability for full color to be present, such as black, red, brown and other colors. The eyes of an albino or partial albino snake are typically red or pink.
Even with the classification of albino, a snake can remain in the sunlight for several hours with minimal harm being done.
Their bodies are made to withstand dry ground and exposure to the sun. Corn snakes and snakes of larger types, such as a boa or Diamondback, are the most commonly affected by albinism with most appearing to be a pinkish or yellowish color.
Albino Birds
Albinism is only seen in about 1 of every 1800 birds. A true albino bird will have a white beak, white plumage, non-color skin, white talons and pink or red eyes. It is important to understand that birds that are naturally white, such as swans, egrets, and geese are not albino. Albinism in birds refers to those that are normally with color.
The inability to hide from predators makes these birds more vulnerable.
The two most common types of birds to note an occurrence of albinism are the common house swallow and American robin. There have been notations of albinism in the African penguin, red-winged blackbird, and common barn swallow as well. Partial albinism, where streaks, patches or flecks of color are present, is more common than complete albinism in birds.
Albino Turtles
It is not as uncommon to see an albino turtle. Sulcata Tortoises are the most likely type of turtle to see albinism. Their eyes tend to be a pinkish color and the shells have an almost yellow coloration. With turtles, a pure white color is nearly impossible, even with albinism.
Turtles that are classified as albinos are able to maintain a long lifespan, unlike many other species that have the occurrence of albinism. Their hard exteriors help to prevent their soft bodies from being subjected to many environmental elements.
Although they do still require plenty of shade and access to water, their function is not as limited as other species. Vision and sensory organs are slightly affected, but not to the point of labeling an albino turtle as “disabled”.
Albino Amphibians
In regards to amphibians, albinism is not as uncommon as in other species. Salamanders, frogs and toads are all subject to albinism. Frogs and toads are not typically seen all white. Most have streaks or patches of light color such as orange and yellow.
These amphibians must be kept in an environment where ample shade is present. Amphibians live their lives 50/50 with that time being split between land and water.
Salamanders are known for climbing trees and buildings. It is rare to see an albino salamander during daylight hours. This time is most often spent in a wet, swampy area. Simply speaking, a salamander can literally cook to death in the sun within just a few minutes.
An albino frog or toad can withstand being exposed to the sun for a short period of time. Their skin will begin to dry and wither quickly. Before sunrise and just after dusk is when an albino frog or toad is most likely to travel away from water and prey on mosquitos, flies and other bugs for nourishment.
Albino Alligator
Sometimes referred to as the “Ghost of the Swamp” the albino alligator requires special attention. It is extremely rare for this type of alligator to live in a natural environment. Those that have been able to be studied were shown to survive no more than 24 hours when exposed to radiant light.
A controlled environment that delivers ample shade and controlled radiant light are required. Those that are able to be kept in captivity are kept out of direct sunlight and are given a D3 supplement to aid in the sensitivity.
There is no way to return pigment to the reptile, thus protecting it via supplement and a controlled living environment is the best way to keep the rare reptile nourished and healthy. An albino alligator is likely to be less hefty than a genetically correct specimen.
This is due to their inability to disguise themselves for hunting purposes. Genetically correct alligators can grow to 15-feet in length and up to 1,000 pounds in weight.
Albino Rat
Although rather common, the albino rat suffers from several deficiencies, including impaired vision. Unlike many other albino species, the rat can be genetically reproduced in an albino form. This is often done in order to produce more specimens for experimentation.
Commonly called, a lab rat, experimentations are more easily conducted with an albino rat given their ability to absorb research chemicals and react to medical procedures in a more natural way than genetically correct rats. The albino rat can also be reproduced as household pets.
What Causes Albinism in Animals?
Similar to humans, albinism occurs in an animal when a mutation of the TYR gene that delivers pigmentation and melanin occurs. The TYR gene is completely non-functional. This leaves a lack of melanin in the skin as well as the inability to deliver color to hair via the follicles. Eye colors are also distorted, meaning that in animals, most of the time the eyes are red.
In some cases of albinism in animals, eye colors are a very bright, light or crystal blue color almost appears white.
In order for an animal to be subject to albinism, both parents must carry this recessive gene. Even with both parents of an animal carrying the gene, this does not designate a concrete factor that albinism will occur.
Very few animals, just as in humans, are seen with this gene mutation. There are no medical treatments to return melanin or proper genes to the bodies of these animals.
Most Common Species Affected by Albinism
Albinism in animals is most commonly seen in birds, reptiles and amphibians. Rarely is it seen in mammals and other species? These rare occurrences are often unexplainable, especially in cases when only one documented case is ever known in history, such as in the case of the albino gorilla and one albino koala bear.
In birds, the mutation of the gene responsible for assigning a color to feathers and eyes is mutated more often. While some birds stay true to their specific type, many intermingle. This recessive gene is stronger in birds than in any other species, with rats being close behind.
Struggles Encountered by Albino Animals
An albino animal is rather weak in a variety of aspects. The most prominent being the inability to adapt to their natural environments. Amphibians, reptiles, and birds are meant to blend in with nature. The inability to hide when in danger puts them at great risk for harm.
For instance, an albino animal in the large cat species is unable to blend with its territory. When the grass is green and lush vegetation is in full bloom, an albino animal has no way of disguising itself when predators are near. Although the animal may be strong and understands how to react, it may not be quick enough to ward off an attack.
Typical Medical Issues Common in Albino Animals
A variety of medical problems are encountered by albino animals. It is a given that these animals are subject to sensitive skin and must limit sun exposure.
Most animals that are plagued with albinism are not seen much during daylight hours. Their lives adapt to be visible after dusk or in the overnight hours when it is less dangerous to be in the sunlight.
Several of these medical issues are also seen in humans. Some animals can be taught via human instruction to adapt their lifestyles to embrace their differences with the use of repetition in routine. An animal will easily become accustomed to repeat routines in order to process commands regain some self-defense mechanisms and adapt to their surroundings.
Albinism has a strict definition with few exceptions. Some consider all white animals that do not have red eyes to be just a white species. The fact of the matter is that some of these animals are still albino regardless.
The eyes of an albino animal are normally red, again, due to the blood cells that settle behind the retinas, however, they can be a very light, and almost muted version of a genetically correct member of the species. Many albino animal species are deemed as being in high demand for research and, becoming more common, as pets.
An inability to provide extensive medical care for an albino animal that is not a bird, reptile or amphibian is one of the main reasons that these species are kept in a controlled environment. They are beautiful to look at but require far more care than a common person is capable of providing.
Albino animals are seen as vulnerable members of their species. This is due to their inability to blend with their surroundings, making them vulnerable to predators. Some species, such as birds and reptiles, are subject to partial albinism where only patches of their skin are affected.
Some species are intentionally bred and are used for scientific experimentation to study albinism. Many species have red eyes, which is due to the number of blood vessels that are retained in the retinal area.
Misconceptions Regarding Albino Animals
An albino animal is often labeled as exotic. While they are rare, most species are quite common. When an albino animal is documented, it makes them more valuable and more desirable to pet owners. Many believe that an albino animal has to be all white and have red eyes.
This is not the case with all species. Some have streaks or patches of pigment. In frogs, birds and some amphibians, streaks or patches of color is actually rather common. Not all species will have red eyes either as blood vessels and cells do not always take over the area behind the retina.
Albino Gorilla
There has only been one albino Gorilla documented. It was brought to the Barcelona Zoo in Spain to be kept safe and was on display for visitors to view. Snowflake, the albino gorilla, lived for 39 years. His breed was Western Lowland Gorilla. All others of this breed have been charcoal in color, including his mother.
It was found to be rather odd that this Gorilla, who lacked pigment and melanin, fathered 22 offspring and none, were albino. Even the offspring of those fathered by Snowflake was not albino. It was also rare that a gorilla would live to be this age as most only live to the age of 25.
When this gorilla was captured, it was the intention of Jordi Sabater Pi to ensure that Snowflake was put into a protective living situation, such as that at the zoo where he lived his life. Pi was mesmerized by the light blue color of the gorilla’s eyes and the fact that he functioned and resembled a normal gorilla but lacked the true color.
Other than sensitivity to light and the development of skin cancer, everything about this gorilla was true to the species. The reason for albinism in this particular gorilla is still unknown.
Albino Snakes
Partial albinism is more common than absolute albinism in snakes. This is a case where melanin and pigment delivery from genetic mutation is present. For snakes that are generally patterned in color, a faint blue, peach or yellowish coloring is often noted.
The classification comes from the inability for full color to be present, such as black, red, brown and other colors. The eyes of an albino or partial albino snake are typically red or pink.
Even with the classification of albino, a snake can remain in the sunlight for several hours with minimal harm being done.
Their bodies are made to withstand dry ground and exposure to the sun. Corn snakes and snakes of larger types, such as a boa or Diamondback, are the most commonly affected by albinism with most appearing to be a pinkish or yellowish color.
Albino Birds
Albinism is only seen in about 1 of every 1800 birds. A true albino bird will have a white beak, white plumage, non-color skin, white talons and pink or red eyes. It is important to understand that birds that are naturally white, such as swans, egrets, and geese are not albino. Albinism in birds refers to those that are normally with color.
The inability to hide from predators makes these birds more vulnerable.
The two most common types of birds to note an occurrence of albinism are the common house swallow and American robin. There have been notations of albinism in the African penguin, red-winged blackbird, and common barn swallow as well. Partial albinism, where streaks, patches or flecks of color are present, is more common than complete albinism in birds.
Albino Turtles
It is not as uncommon to see an albino turtle. Sulcata Tortoises are the most likely type of turtle to see albinism. Their eyes tend to be a pinkish color and the shells have an almost yellow coloration. With turtles, a pure white color is nearly impossible, even with albinism.
Turtles that are classified as albinos are able to maintain a long lifespan, unlike many other species that have the occurrence of albinism. Their hard exteriors help to prevent their soft bodies from being subjected to many environmental elements.
Although they do still require plenty of shade and access to water, their function is not as limited as other species. Vision and sensory organs are slightly affected, but not to the point of labeling an albino turtle as “disabled”.
Albino Amphibians
In regards to amphibians, albinism is not as uncommon as in other species. Salamanders, frogs and toads are all subject to albinism. Frogs and toads are not typically seen all white. Most have streaks or patches of light color such as orange and yellow.
These amphibians must be kept in an environment where ample shade is present. Amphibians live their lives 50/50 with that time being split between land and water.
Salamanders are known for climbing trees and buildings. It is rare to see an albino salamander during daylight hours. This time is most often spent in a wet, swampy area. Simply speaking, a salamander can literally cook to death in the sun within just a few minutes.
An albino frog or toad can withstand being exposed to the sun for a short period of time. Their skin will begin to dry and wither quickly. Before sunrise and just after dusk is when an albino frog or toad is most likely to travel away from water and prey on mosquitos, flies and other bugs for nourishment.
Albino Alligator
Sometimes referred to as the “Ghost of the Swamp” the albino alligator requires special attention. It is extremely rare for this type of alligator to live in a natural environment. Those that have been able to be studied were shown to survive no more than 24 hours when exposed to radiant light.
A controlled environment that delivers ample shade and controlled radiant light are required. Those that are able to be kept in captivity are kept out of direct sunlight and are given a D3 supplement to aid in the sensitivity.
There is no way to return pigment to the reptile, thus protecting it via supplement and a controlled living environment is the best way to keep the rare reptile nourished and healthy. An albino alligator is likely to be less hefty than a genetically correct specimen.
This is due to their inability to disguise themselves for hunting purposes. Genetically correct alligators can grow to 15-feet in length and up to 1,000 pounds in weight.
Albino Rat
Although rather common, the albino rat suffers from several deficiencies, including impaired vision. Unlike many other albino species, the rat can be genetically reproduced in an albino form. This is often done in order to produce more specimens for experimentation.
Commonly called, a lab rat, experimentations are more easily conducted with an albino rat given their ability to absorb research chemicals and react to medical procedures in a more natural way than genetically correct rats. The albino rat can also be reproduced as household pets.
What Causes Albinism in Animals?
Similar to humans, albinism occurs in an animal when a mutation of the TYR gene that delivers pigmentation and melanin occurs. The TYR gene is completely non-functional. This leaves a lack of melanin in the skin as well as the inability to deliver color to hair via the follicles. Eye colors are also distorted, meaning that in animals, most of the time the eyes are red.
In some cases of albinism in animals, eye colors are a very bright, light or crystal blue color almost appears white.
In order for an animal to be subject to albinism, both parents must carry this recessive gene. Even with both parents of an animal carrying the gene, this does not designate a concrete factor that albinism will occur.
Very few animals, just as in humans, are seen with this gene mutation. There are no medical treatments to return melanin or proper genes to the bodies of these animals.
Most Common Species Affected by Albinism
Albinism in animals is most commonly seen in birds, reptiles and amphibians. Rarely is it seen in mammals and other species? These rare occurrences are often unexplainable, especially in cases when only one documented case is ever known in history, such as in the case of the albino gorilla and one albino koala bear.
In birds, the mutation of the gene responsible for assigning a color to feathers and eyes is mutated more often. While some birds stay true to their specific type, many intermingle. This recessive gene is stronger in birds than in any other species, with rats being close behind.
Struggles Encountered by Albino Animals
An albino animal is rather weak in a variety of aspects. The most prominent being the inability to adapt to their natural environments. Amphibians, reptiles, and birds are meant to blend in with nature. The inability to hide when in danger puts them at great risk for harm.
For instance, an albino animal in the large cat species is unable to blend with its territory. When the grass is green and lush vegetation is in full bloom, an albino animal has no way of disguising itself when predators are near. Although the animal may be strong and understands how to react, it may not be quick enough to ward off an attack.
Typical Medical Issues Common in Albino Animals
A variety of medical problems are encountered by albino animals. It is a given that these animals are subject to sensitive skin and must limit sun exposure.
Most animals that are plagued with albinism are not seen much during daylight hours. Their lives adapt to be visible after dusk or in the overnight hours when it is less dangerous to be in the sunlight.
- Other medical issues seen in albino animals are:
- Vision impairment
- Speech impairments
- Greater risk of skin cancer
- Hearing impairments
- Difficulty processing tasks
- The difficulty with sensory organs
- Impaired senses of smell
Several of these medical issues are also seen in humans. Some animals can be taught via human instruction to adapt their lifestyles to embrace their differences with the use of repetition in routine. An animal will easily become accustomed to repeat routines in order to process commands regain some self-defense mechanisms and adapt to their surroundings.
Albinism has a strict definition with few exceptions. Some consider all white animals that do not have red eyes to be just a white species. The fact of the matter is that some of these animals are still albino regardless.
The eyes of an albino animal are normally red, again, due to the blood cells that settle behind the retinas, however, they can be a very light, and almost muted version of a genetically correct member of the species. Many albino animal species are deemed as being in high demand for research and, becoming more common, as pets.
An inability to provide extensive medical care for an albino animal that is not a bird, reptile or amphibian is one of the main reasons that these species are kept in a controlled environment. They are beautiful to look at but require far more care than a common person is capable of providing.
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