Albino capybara spotted in Uruguay nature reserve: What is it like?

An albino capybara was recently observed in the wild in the Mauricio López Lomba Reserve, located in the department of Tacuarembó, Uruguay. The unusual sighting was documented by visitors and workers at the protected area and quickly spread on social media , where it generated widespread attention due to the rarity of this genetic condition.

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Albinism is a mutation that prevents the production of melanin, the substance responsible for pigmentation in the skin, fur, and eyes of animals. In this case, the capybara has white fur and pink eyes, which, according to local biologists, increases its vulnerability in the wild.

“ Albinism makes them more visible to natural predators, such as jaguars or birds of prey, which reduces their chances of survival ,” explained a wildlife researcher involved in monitoring the reserve. Furthermore, this condition can be associated with visual problems and heightened sensitivity to sunlight, factors that also affect their orientation and navigation skills.

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Despite these disadvantages, the animal was observed regularly interacting with its group. According to specialists who analyzed the records, the animal's social behavior remains unchanged. "At first glance, it appears to be maintaining the cohesive structure within its herd, which is positive from an ethological perspective," noted a field biologist.

Beyond its behavior, the discovery raises concerns about the specimen's safety from human threats. Because it is a rare genetic anomaly, there is concern about possible illegal hunting or capture for commercialization. "These types of animals are highly sought after in wildlife trafficking due to their rarity," warned an environmental official from the department of Tacuarembó.

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Reserve authorities have intensified surveillance efforts in the area, while also analyzing the possibility of strengthening habitat protection measures. Although no direct intervention has been reported, experts point out that constant monitoring will be key to preserving both the specimen and the ecosystem it inhabits.

The sighting has also captured the attention of scientific institutions interested in studying the impact of albinism in large wild species. The information gathered could be relevant for future conservation strategies and for understanding how these mutations affect the dynamics of wild groups .

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The capybara, also known as the carpincho, is the world's largest rodent and inhabits the wetlands and savannas of central and northern South America. In Colombia, it is known as the chigüiro and is an emblematic species of the plains ecosystems, where it plays a key role in ecological balance. Although its presence is common in the region, albino specimens are extremely rare, and there are no recent records of this type in the country.

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The Mauricio López Lomba Reserve, where the albino capybara was sighted, has established itself as a space dedicated to the conservation of native species and ecological research . Its most recent record adds to a growing global concern for the protection of biodiversity from threats such as climate change and illegal wildlife trafficking.

DIANA K. RODRÍGUEZ T. PORTFOLIO EDITORIAL