Albinism is caused by lack of enzymes in melanin that leads to pigment deficiency. The recessive gene that is mostly inherited, affects all vertebrates. The condition makes it hard especially for wild animals to survive, since it makes them an easy target for predators. The animals also lack protection from hazardous ultraviolet sun rays, have very sensitive eyes and are susceptible to skin cancer. Despite this lack of pigmentation though, the animals are just as adorable as any other animal. Here is a list of 15 of these rare and adorable animals.

1 Alligator

The pale skin and piercing blue eyes makes this rare alligator stand out. The alligator has a “little bit of pigmentation around the mouth and a little touch on the tail and they have piercing blue eyes.” (source)

2 Penguin 

The rare white Albino penguin was spotted by tourists in Antarctica. The penguin has a mutation that dilutes its feather pigments. According to penguin experts, the penguin appeared to have a condition called Isabellinism where pigment is diluted in penguin feathers. This results in the uniform lightening of the bird’s dark colors and turns the animal pale brown or grayish yellow. (source)

3 Hummingbird 

The rare albino ruby throated hummingbird was photographed in Staunton, Virginia, on Aug. 16, 2011 by the older boys of Kevin and Bethany Shank. They run the Nature Friend Magazine. (source)

4 Eastern Screech Owl 

Albino owls have pink skin around their eyes which ranges from pink to dark cherry-red. Another indicator of albinism in owls is pink toes. (source)

5 Porcupine

This is Blondie, the rare albino porcupine at the London Zoo. Albino porcupines have softer hair-like quills unlike the other porcupines that have sharper spines used to defend themselves. (source)