A rare and adorable white lion cub was recently spotted playing with its tawny siblings in South Africa’s renowned Kruger National Park. Photos show the unique cub snuggling with its mother and frolicking in the sand.
Unlike albinism, the cub’s white fur is caused by leucism, which results in partial pigmentation loss. While leucism can lead to white fur or feathers, it doesn’t affect an animal’s eyes.
Family fun-time: The incredibly rare white lion cub could be seen playing with its siblings under its mother’s watchful gaze in the famous Kruger National Park in South Africa. Source: Daily Mail
Wildlife photographer Lyle McCabe, 30, captured the extraordinary sighting. He explained that they had been aware of the cubs’ birth a month earlier but had kept their distance to ensure the animals’ safety.
McCabe’s friends, family, and fellow guides expressed amazement, excitement, and even envy at the rare sighting.
Hands-on parenting: The mother has grabbed one of the white cub’s siblings by its neck and is carrying it in her mouth. Source: Daily Mail
Rare beast: The cub is leucistic, a genetic condition that is often confused with albinism. Source: Daily Mail
Despite its unique appearance, the white lion cub was treated the same as its siblings. However, McCabe notes that the cub might face challenges in the future.
Survival past the crucial two-year mark is essential for all the cubs. Still, the white lion cub’s distinctive coat could make hunting difficult and potentially hinder its siblings’ chances of survival.
Little Leo: Leucism only causes partial loss of pigmentation, and while an affected animal can have completely white fur like this little cub, it does not affect the eyes. Source: Daily Mail
Where are you going: Mother lion can be seen watching her cubs closely as they play on nearby rocks. Source: Daily Mail
Give me a break: In one of the follow-up snaps, she has seemingly decided she has had enough and has laid down for a nap. Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail