White giraffes were once thought to only exist in fairy tales until conservation rangers spotted not one but two of them. A mother and her baby giraffe were spotted by conservation rangers in Kenya near the Ishaqbini conservation in Garissa. The rangers were dumbfounded when they discovered the rare animals.
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The white coloration is the result of a condition known as leucism. The giraffes aren’t actually albino. The reason they are colored white is because they are experiencing a partial loss of pigmentation, which causes them to lose their original markings.
Although it is very rare for wild animals to allow close contact with humans, these two giraffes didn’t seem to mind the company. According to one of the experts from Hirola Conservation Program: “They were so close and extremely calm and seemed not disturbed by our presence.”
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“While observing the magnificent long-necked animal looking at us, I could not help but see the fading reticulates (markings) on their skin. It is evident that the coloration, especially on the mother giraffe, was not as conspicuous as the baby.” the expert said.
A giraffe normally has a pattern or markings on their skin. But for these two specific giraffes, it’s barely noticeable. That’s why they look as if they are white in color. However, on closer inspection, it can be observed that their markings are still there.
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This is the third sighting of these oddly-colored giraffes, and two of the sightings were at the same location. These beautiful creatures are truly an amazing sight to behold. This is why it is important that we take care of our environment so that we can witness more of these wonderful creatures.
