Rare Albino Indian Palm Squirrel Documented at Chennai's Vandalur Zoo
A unique and rare albino Indian palm squirrel has been observed at the Arignar Anna Zoological Park in Vandalur, Chennai, marking a significant discovery in urban wildlife research. This sighting, documented by a researcher from The Gandhigram Rural Institute, represents the first recorded case of albinism in this species within the city's fauna.
First Photographic Evidence of Albinism in the Species
The albino squirrel was recorded on September 13, 2025, inside the Nilgiri langur enclosure at the zoo. Researcher S Jeswin, who authored a scientific note published in the zoo's journal, reported that the animal exhibited a uniform white coat and reddish eyes, characteristic of albinism. The squirrel was seen climbing a tree during the day at around 11:02 AM, with the sighting lasting approximately 20 minutes.
This is the first photographic evidence of albinism in Funambulus palmarum in city fauna, said Jeswin. He noted that the squirrel's activity and movements were similar to those of normal conspecifics, with no other albino individuals observed in the vicinity.
Understanding Albinism and Its Rarity in Wildlife
Albinism is a rare genetic condition caused by the absence of melanin, the pigment responsible for color in skin, fur, and eyes. Such color mutations, including albinism, leucism, and melanism, occur due to genetic changes affecting pigmentation. In wild mammals, albinism is particularly uncommon because it reduces survival against predators and lowers overall fitness due to poor camouflage capabilities.
The Indian palm squirrel is a common rodent species in southern India, widely adapted to both urban and rural environments. While a 2017 study recorded leucism in this species, albinism remains extremely rare. A 2015 study documented albinism in Funambulus tristriatus, or the jungle palm squirrel found in the Western Ghats, but this new sighting in Chennai is a notable addition.
Survival in an Urban Habitat
The persistence of this albino squirrel in the zoo setting suggests reduced predation pressure in urban habitats. Jeswin explained that the survival of such individuals is often limited in the wild due to their visibility to predators. However, the protected environment of the zoo may have allowed this rare animal to thrive, highlighting the role of urban conservation areas in supporting biodiversity.
This discovery underscores the importance of ongoing wildlife monitoring and research in urban ecosystems. It also serves as a reminder of the genetic diversity present in common species, even in highly developed areas like Chennai.
