Here’s something you certainly don’t see every day. Footage of an extremely rare all-white Gentoo penguin with leucism (a genetic condition caused by partial loss of pigmentation of plumage or fur) has been turning heads after recently being spotted in the Chilean Antarctic. Shared by @globalnews.ca on TikTok, the fascinating clip really is a sight to see.
Gentoo penguins are typically seen sporting the black and white tuxedos that we’re all commonly familiar with, which makes this sighting extremely rare (especially in the wild).
@globalnews.caA rare white penguin with leucism, a genetic condition caused by partial loss of pigmentation of plumage or fur, has been spotted in the Chilean Antarctic. #penguin
After spending some time in the comments, I have to admit that more than a handful of valid questions were flooding in. Does this keep her safer since she can blend into the snow better? Does this hinder her chances for a mate?
Related: 5 Facts You Should Know About Penguins
I did learn that when it comes to long-term survival, birds with irregular plumage may unfortunately have a real disadvantage. That’s because the black and white body of most penguins is a form of marine camouflage called “countershading,” which helps them blend into the ocean. Simply put—a pure white bird could have a harder time sneaking up on its prey underwater (or hiding from predators who might enjoy penguins).
What is leucism?
Leucism and albinism are often confused with each other, and in fairness, it’s because they are quite similar. Albinism is a genetic mutation that prevents the production of melanin (but not other pigments), where as leucism refers to “an abnormality in the deposition of pigment in feathers.”
There is certainly some disagreement as to whether the condition is genetic or caused by pigment cells that were damaged during development. Whatever the cause, the condition can result in a reduction in all types of pigment, which causes pale or muted colors on the entire bird like we see here.
It’s also known that albinistic birds typically have pink eyes because without melanin in the body, the only color in the eyes comes from the blood vessels behind them. However, it is possible for a bird to be completely white and still have melanin in the body, like when a white bird has dark eyes. In that case, the bird would be considered leucistic because the mutation only applies to depositing melanin in the feathers, not the absence of melanin in the body.
Regardless, it’s an extremely rare condition in all species—we’re talking one in a million type stuff—which makes this encounter absolutely amazing. Another common theme in the comments is the urge to protect this rare penguin, and I personally couldn’t agree more.
Also, I’m glad to see that the other penguins in this colony seem to accept her, because that unfortunately isn’t always the case. It’s just another example as to why the wild can be so harsh! Thankfully, these penguins seem to be living quite harmoniously alongside their unique friend, and I love to see it.
