Rare white penguin spotted in Antarctica

An ultra white penguin's been spotted in the Antarctic. The penguin belongs to the Gentoo species, whose feathers are typically black and white, with a bright reddish-orange beak.

Hugo Harros is a Chilean chef stationed at the Gabriel Videla base, an ex-research centre which serves as a museum for tourists in the summer months. An avid photographer, he first caught sight of the extraordinary white bird.

Hugo Harros: "When we came across this specimen, the crew was very impressed, and we quickly wanted to take pictures for our memories."

An identical penguin was spotted in this colony eight years ago, although it's possible it may be a descendant rather than the same bird.

The absence of colour is referred to as 'leucism' and it's a genetic condition which is caused by a recessive gene. Diego Mojica is a marine biologist who's researched this phenomenon.

Diego Mojica: "Leucism is the consequence of a recessive gene that seems to be somehow hereditary. Out of thousands of penguins, a certain percentage may be born with leucism."

The same gene can also affect alligators, whales and bison but in contrast to albinism, the animals' eyes aren't affected.

Despite being regularly seen in the neighbourhood of the base, the Gentoo penguin population is decreasing mainly due to environmental destruction and because of the impact of humans. And being strikingly white, this particular female penguin will now be a very easy target underwater, when she dives for food.

Delighted to have captured the photos of the unique bird, Hugo Harros is hopeful they will contribute to people's understanding of the species.

Hugo Harros: "As an amateur nature photographer I wanted to capture this image as a souvenir. I would also like to educate people through photography. This is one of my main goals."

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