Ghost Moose: The Rare White Giants of Scandinavia are Increasing in Numbers

"It is estimate that there are roughly 100 white moose in Sweden, most concentrated in Varmland, with smaller numbers in nearby regions such as Dalsland and Bohuslan. Across the Gulf of Bothnia, southwestern Finland has its own, quieter population less publicised, but tracked for decades by local hunters and wildlife managers. But it appears that in both Sweden and Finland, white moose numbers have increased in the last two decades."

"Despite their white appearance, these moose are not albino. The distinction lies in how their bodies handle pigment. Albinism occurs when an animal cannot produce melanin at all, often resulting in red eyes and associated health issues. These moose, however, exhibit leucism a genetic mutation that allows pigment production but prevents it from being properly deposited in the fur."

"Jorgen Hermansson, hunting director in Southwest Finland, is clear on the distinction: It has nothing to do with albinism. An albino is completely pigmentless, has red eyes and often has less vitality. The white moose that occur here are otherwise completely normal moose. Most white moose therefore have dark eyes, though v"

White moose occur in Sweden and Finland, with an estimated population of about 100 in Sweden, concentrated mainly in Varmland and smaller numbers in nearby regions. A quieter population exists in southwestern Finland and has been tracked for decades by local hunters and wildlife managers. Sightings have increased over the last two decades, and viral footage often shows pale, ghostlike moose foraging in dense woodland. The animals are not albino. They are leucistic, a genetic mutation that allows pigment production but prevents proper deposition in the fur. Albino animals lack pigment entirely, often show red eyes, and can have health and vitality issues, while these moose have otherwise normal bodies and typically dark eyes.

Read at snowbrains.com