Maharashtra: Rare white mongoose spotted in Ratnagiri, Forest Department begins verification

Rare white mongoose spotted in Ratnagiri (Pic/Special arrangement)

A rare white-coloured mongoose was spotted in Chiplun town of Maharashtra's Ratnagiri district, drawing the attention of wildlife enthusiasts and forest officials alike.

The unusual sighting of the mongoose occurred when a local resident noticed a group of two to three carnivorous mammals while cleaning the terrace of his house. Among them was a striking white-coloured mongoose, believed to be a rare colour variant.

Forest officials highlight this as an unusual sighting

Confirming the development, Ratnagiri Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Girija Desai said the department has received the video and is examining the sighting.

DFO Desai said, "The unusual sighting came to light after a local resident noticed a group of two to three mongooses while cleaning the terrace of his house. Among them was a striking white-coloured mongoose, believed to be a rare colour variant."

Video sent for verification

The resident recorded a video of the animal before it disappeared and later shared the footage with wildlife enthusiasts. The video has since been forwarded to the Forest Department for verification and further investigation.

Desai, while speaking to Mid-Day, said that the animal is not necessarily an albino but could be exhibiting leucism, a rare genetic condition that results in partial loss of pigmentation while retaining normal eye colour. She also highlighted that it may be noted that such sightings are uncommon in the wild and are considered significant from a wildlife documentation perspective. Forest officials are expected to verify the sighting and assess if further monitoring of the area is required.