Snowflake the Albino Gorilla

Unusual As Usual

Snowflake was a western lowland gorilla born in 1964 with Albinism - the congenital absence of any pigmentation or coloration. Albino animals usually have characteristic pink or red eyes due the lack of pigment in the iris allowing the blood vessels of the retina to be visible, however Snowflake strangely had blue eyes. He presented traits and characteristics of albinism typically seen in humans, including white hair, pinkish skin, light coloured eyes, reduced visual perception and light sensitivity.

In 2001, Snowflake was diagnosed with an unusual form of skin cancer, almost certainly related to his albinism. And by 2003, his health had begun to deteriorate. After he began losing interest in his usual activities, isolating himself and showing signs of pain, Snowflake's keepers reluctantly made the decision to euthanise him. The decision was publicly announced in September 2003 before being euthanised just two months later. At the time of his death, Snowflake was thought to be between 38 and 40 years old.
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Fact Analysis: Although careful research is implemented to assure accurate and correct information, sometimes it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction (or ‘humbug', as P.T. Barnum would say). If you find any information in this podcast inaccurate, please do let me know via social media.