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Sisters Pecan and Cashew were rescued earlier this year by Sonflower Ranch and Rescue after a homeowner discovered a family of raccoons in their wall. Due to their leucism, a genetic abnormality that causes partial pigment loss, the two raccoons are unlikely to survive in the wild.

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Leucism is the partial loss of all types of pigmentation, including carotenoids. Leucism causes white coloration, white patches, spots, or splotches on the skin or fur. Leucism is also discernible from albinism because leucism does not affect the pigment cells in the eyes.

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[-] Kolanaki@yiffit.net 3 points 1 year ago

How does their pigmentation hinder them from surviving in the wild?

[-] ickplant@lemmy.world 5 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago)

I have the same question - the only answer I came up with is lack of camouflage. I'll look it up more when I have more time.

Edit: It is indeed due to their loss of ability to camouflage as well, however, it's not a certain death sentence, really more of a judgment call on behalf of the zoo.

[-] jaybone@lemmy.world 2 points 8 months ago

Zebras have problems when they have genetic differences that make them unable to “camouflage” to blend in with the pack when predators attack.

I never really thought of raccoons as pack or herd animals. So I’m not sure why this would be an issue for them.

[-] kewko 3 points 1 year ago

Both of them look slightly annoyed. We can imagine as much as we like,but neither of them are happy about the camera (person)

[-] jaybone@lemmy.world 2 points 8 months ago

Pecan doesn’t look angry or grumpy. She just looks curious. ❤️ Pecan

this post was submitted on 14 Nov 2023
79 points (95.4% liked)

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