PENNSYLVANIA, USA — The Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) is highlighting a 'ghostly groundhog' for the beginning of the spooky season!
Out of 66 wild animals within the state, the albino groundhog is described as so rare that many Pennsylvanians will never get the chance to see one in their lifetime.
In a Facebook post on their official page, the PGC explains the difference between leucistic and albino animals by stating that albinos have a complete lack of pigmentation caused by a genetic mutation that prevents the production of melanin, a natural substance that gives color to the skin, and that makes them appear white and have pink or red eyes.
If the animal is leucistic, the PGC states that it has a partial loss of pigmentation and results in white coloration, or white patches or spots.
"Leucistic animals do not lose color in their eyes, making eye color a good way to determine if the animal is albino or leucistic," the PGC explained. "Albinism and leucism occur in many wildlife species, though the animals are relatively rare."
According to the PGC, albinos and leucistic individuals likely experience higher predation rates, as they have a hard time blending in with their habitat; on top of that, their short life spans make them even harder to detect.
"This groundhog reminds us of the incredible diversity in the animal world," the PGC expressed.
