Penguins carry a rare genetic mutation that causes the previously dark feathers on the head, back, and wings to turn white.
Tour guides have spotted white penguins on Isabela, the largest island in the Galapagos archipelago, Havana Times reported on 11/27. It is most likely the Galapagos penguin (Spheniscus mendiculus), endemic to this archipelago. Unlike its brothers with a black head, back and wings, it has a unique luminous coloring.
Experts believe it is possible that white penguins carry a rare genetic mutation called leucism. Leucism causes a lack of pigmentation, which makes normally dark hair lighter. Unlike albinos, animals with leucism always have normal eye color.
The Galapagos Islands have been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 1979. Sharks, lizards, lobsters and sparrows with leucism once appeared on the Galapagos Islands. However, this is the first time that experts have discovered white penguins in this area.
The Galapagos Islands are home to many species of flora and fauna not found anywhere else in the world, including the Galapagos penguin. They are usually only 50cm tall, weigh 2.5kg and are one of the smallest penguins in the world. They are also the only penguins living north of the equator.
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