When Nicki Coertze, a tourist and photographer, was on an African safari he saw what is surely a once-in-a-lifetime sighting: an adorable pink baby elephant, happily playing around with the rest of the herd. The baby is an albino, and Coertze’s photos of it quickly went viral.
Albinism is pretty very rare amongst African elephants, but in this particular case it’s just too cute!
Growing up an albino can be tough for this baby elephant, not only could this calf been rejected by the herd, it’s also a very vulnerable target for predators and poachers.
Thankfully, these elephants reside in the safety of a national park.
Over time, it’s possible because of the lack of pigmentation, sun damage could occur, and many albino animals also suffer from blindness later on in life.
For now though, this adorable calf is having a great time frolicking by the water with the rest of the herd.
58-year-old Nicki Coertze, who took these photos, says he’s been coming to the park regularly since he was a kid and he’s never seen an albino elephant.
Truly, this was a once-in-a-lifetime sighting.
Here’s hoping this baby grows up to be healthy and happy and we’re really glad it was accepted by the herd despite looking so different.
If you know someone who might like this, please click “Share!”