I love genetics! Two awesome genetic mutations are called 'albinism' (which you are probably aware of) and 'melanism' (which you might not be aware of).

Albinism is a complete lack of pigmentation in the skin and eyes, seen in:

Squirrels

Peacocks

Lions

Bison

Turtles

Hedgehogs [my favorite animals! <3]

Dolphins, and basically every animal known to man, with a few exceptions. Tigers and zebras aren't considered 'true' albinos because you can always see faint stripes and they won't have the red eyes. Giraffes aren't considered 'true' albinos because you can always see their spots, and again, the red eyes are lacking. :)




Melanism is the exact opposite of albinism, and it seems to be treated like that strange kid down the block- ignored, for the most part. Melanin is the pigmentation of the skin and eyes, and in the case of melanism, there is so much it turns the animal completely black, creating such awesome mutations as:

Leopards

Penguins

Deer

Ducks

Barn Owls

Sea Horses

Servals, and many other animals. Again, zebras can't be called true melanistic animals because they are never fully covered with black. :)

Thus concludes my first post!

Keep thinking!