Rare Albino Squirrel Spotted in Rajasthan's Tonk District
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Rare albino "sunflower" squirrel spotted in Rajasthan's Tonk district. |
| Previous Sightings | Reported in Banswara and Dungarpur districts, but still extremely rare. |
| Appearance | Pure white fur, pink/red eyes due to lack of melanin. |
| Genetic Cause | Recessive mutation affecting tyrosinase enzyme; both parents must carry the gene. |
| Inheritance Uncertainty | No guarantee offspring will be albino; typically born slate grey. |
| Litter Size | Squirrels usually give birth to 2-4 kits. |
| Rarity | Estimated 1 in 100,000 chance of albino birth; localized clusters exist. |
| Global Populations | Notable white/albino squirrel colonies in the United States. |
| Indian Species | Includes Indian palm squirrel and hoary-bellied squirrel. |
| Indian Sightings | Documented in Assam, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. |
| Survival Challenges | Poor camouflage increases predation risk; susceptibility to sunburn and skin cancer. |
| Behavior | Similar to normal squirrels--foraging, climbing, and socializing. |