Rare Albino Killer Whale Spotted Off Hokkaido Coast

A rare white killer whale, believed to have a 'glowing mutation', was recently spotted off the coast of Hokkaido, Japan, delighting wildlife photographer Noriyuki Hayakawa. The orca, which is part of a group of just three known white orcas in the region, stands out vividly among its pod of normally colored orcas due to its striking white appearance. Scientists think the whale may be leucistic rather than a true albino, as it retains some pigment and has notable scars where the tissue is darker. The sighting was unexpected and marks the first time Hayakawa, who has spent 15 years documenting orcas in Japan, encountered such a rare animal. Despite the white coloration, which can sometimes lead to social exclusion among animals, this orca appeared to be accepted by its pod. The discovery highlights the ongoing mysteries of orca genetics and the beauty of rare wildlife encounters.