The crew of a Blue Ocean Whale Watch boat stumbled across an incredibly uncommon sight while traveling off the coast of California in Monterey Bay – a newborn albino dolphin swimming with its mother. Kate Cummings, a member of the team, was able to film and photograph the very uncommon marine animal.
It turned out to be a 3-year-old Risso dolphin that was first seen in 2014 as a youngster of a few months old. The whale-watching crew recognized it right away, and they were delighted to find it in such good shape.
“Albino Risso’s dolphins are extremely unusual in the wild,” Cummings told Live Science. “I believe this is the only known albino Risso’s dolphin in the eastern Pacific.” “Because it’s such an uncommon encounter, seeing the dolphin felt extremely amazing.” I first saw this dolphin two years ago; it is now about three years old and still lives with its mother.”
Albinism is responsible for the dolphin’s unique skin hue. A uncommon disease in which the cells do not generate melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Albinism has been seen in over 20 marine species, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, although it is extremely unusual among dolphins.
Albino animals may appear charming, but they suffer from a variety of health and social issues, the most common of which is impaired eyesight. They’re also typically shunned by their peers, and their unique appearance makes them vulnerable to predators.
“Because there is no melanin to protect the skin from UV radiation, albino animals are more prone to skin issues, and they can have impaired eyesight and hearing,” Cummings added. “From what we can see, this kid looks to be in good health.”, Thank you for like and share.
