Extremely Rare White Orca Spotted In Russian Waters

A very rare White Orca was spotted off the Russian Coast. The young White Orca emerges from the water and scientists were very excited about the discovery. This is a very rare sighting because scientists had only previously recorded one other white orca in history. This is incredible! The White Orca had passed right by the scientists boat. They were very lucky to be at the right place at the right time.Show more

Just one in ten thousand orcas are completely white! They usually live until the age of 30 but have been able to survive until 50 to 60 years. Scientists still do not know why orca whales are white. Some believe it may be albinism. This is a disorder that creates the absence of pigment to the skin. This is an incredible sight, and we are very fortunate to have an opportunity to look at this beautiful White Orca whale.

Footage shows the incredible moment when a fishermen has a very close encounter with a rare orca. The white creature is seen swimming right next to their fishing boat. It is not clear whether they are albino orcas or if the coloring is for some other reason.

Orcas, also known as 'killer whales, are normally black-and-white in color, but over the last six years multiple white orcas have been spotted in the waters off Russia’s Kuril Islands. Sadly, according to a scientific study, their appearance may not actually be good news. Whether they are actually true albino orcas, or they just have white pigmentation, this color scheme means that they may have reduced heat absorption abilities in frigid waters, poor camouflage from predators, a high sensitivity to sunlight, and even hampered visual communicative abilities with other orcas. One potential cause of the white hue is the Chediak-Higashi syndrome, a genetic disorder that causes albinism, along with an increased vulnerability to respiratory infections and nervous system disturbances.

Killer whales are known for their curiosity and learning ability. Alaskan killer whales have learned how to steal fish from longlines, which forces fishermen to pick up their catch in small batches, so that the whales don’t come and claim it as their lunch. However, having an albino orca swim past your boat is not something you see every day! Imagine the delight these people felt when they crossed ways with this rare creature!