TWRC Wildlife Center receives rare animal

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas - In December, TWRC Wildlife Center received an animal most of the Center staff had never seen and probably will never see again in their lifetime. Look at the picture and see if you can identify the animal before looking at the answer. ANSWER: if you answered an albino raccoon, you are correct. The odds of spotting one in the wild have been estimated by some to be 1 in 750,000, making it less likely than getting struck by lightning.

An albino is produced when cells are unable to produce melanin which is what gives the natural coloring. Albinos usually have pink eyes, pink nails, a pink nose and pink skin. Albinism is passed genetically from the parents but albinos occur very infrequently since the genes for that trait are recessive while the genes for normal pigmentation are dominant.

Other than the obvious difference in coloring, albino raccoons have the same characteristics as other raccoons. They are highly intelligent and very curious. They can open jars, doors, and even complex locks. They have human-like forepaws complete with 5 fingers and pick up their food before putting it in their mouth. They are agile climbers and good swimmers.

Albino raccoons have a very slim chance of survival in the wild because they have no natural camouflage. TWRC Wildlife Center will not be releasing this little guy. He will receive the best of care and will have a good life while in captivity.

If you would like more information on the fascinating and important work performed at TWRC Wildlife Center in Houston, please visit www.twrcwildlifecenter.org, call 713-468-TWRC or email volunteer@twrcwildlifecenter.org.