A serene kayaking trip on Scotland's picturesque River Don turned into an unforgettable wildlife encounter for two paddlers, who found themselves face-to-face with one of nature's rarest sights: a breathtakingly beautiful white otter.
The duo, navigating the waters near the historic Brig o' Balgownie in Aberdeen, were left utterly spellbound as the ghostly, cream-coloured creature emerged from the riverbank. They managed to capture incredible close-up footage of the otter, which displayed unusually pale fur and striking blue eyes, as it foraged for fish and clambered over rocks.
A Genetic Rarity Sparks Concern
Wildlife experts believe the animal is leucistic—a condition causing partial loss of pigmentation, resulting in its stunning white coat, unlike the typical dark brown of a Eurasian otter. While a mesmerising spectacle, this unique colouration also presents a significant survival challenge.
"Its beautiful pale colour, while magnificent to us, makes it incredibly vulnerable in the wild," explained a spokesperson from the UK Wild Otter Trust. "It lacks the natural camouflage its darker siblings possess, making it an easy target for predators and potentially hindering its ability to hunt successfully."
A Delicate Balance for a National Treasure
Otters are a protected species in the UK, making a full recovery after once facing severe decline. The appearance of this leucistic otter is a testament to the health of the local ecosystem on the River Don. However, conservationists are now faced with a dilemma.
While the instinct is to protect the vulnerable animal, intervention is not straightforward. Experts emphasise that human interference could do more harm than good, potentially causing the otter to abandon its territory or disrupting its natural behaviour.
The public, particularly those in the Aberdeen area, are urged to enjoy the otter from a respectful distance. The UK Wild Otter Trust has issued guidance for anyone lucky enough to spot it:
- Keep noise to a minimum and avoid sudden movements.
- Never attempt to feed or approach the animal.
- Keep dogs on a lead near the riverbank.
- Report any sightings to local wildlife trusts to help monitor its wellbeing.
This rare otter has become an overnight local celebrity, a shimmering emblem of the unexpected wonders thriving in Britain's waterways. Its discovery serves as a powerful reminder of the fascinating genetic diversity within our native species and the importance of continued conservation efforts.
