Albinism is a rare genetic condition caused by mutations of certain genes that affect the amount of melanin a body produces. Melanin controls the pigmentation of an animal's skin, eyes and hair. There are other conditions that cause a partial lack of pigmentation, such as leucism, but true albinism can be detected from the color of an animal's eyes: blood vessels normally masked by pigment show through in albino creatures, making their eyes pinkish in color.
The rate of albinism in wildlife is estimated from 1 in 20,000 to 1 in 1 million. (Purdue Forestry & Natural Resources) Albino wildlife, such as the pictured Porcupine, often have poor eyesight, which puts them at a disadvantage when hunting for food and avoiding danger. In some cases they have trouble finding a mate, and their inability to camouflage themselves makes them vulnerable to predators. (Photo by Owen Cushman)
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