A lucky photographer recently snapped awe-inspiring photos of a rare white moose while exploring the countryside near Värmland, Sweden.
Roger Brendhagen, a 52-year-old photographer from Oslo, Norway, was fortunate enough to encounter the elusive creature and capture its striking appearance.
White moose sightings are incredibly rare, with only an estimated 30 living in the Värmland region. Brendhagen’s crystal-clear images offer a unique glimpse into the life of this magnificent animal.
In an interview, Brendhagen shared his excitement and gratitude for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: “I have met thousands of moose in my life, but when I met this guy in the Swedish forests, I almost lose my senses, but thank God I did not lose the camera.”
Brendhagen went on to explain the distinct appearance of the white moose, which first appeared in western Värmland in the 1930s.
The animals are not albino but rather have a genetic defect called leucism that prevents their coats from storing pigment.
This results in a lighter or completely white coat, while their eyes, beaks, and claws retain normal pigmentation. This sets them apart from albino moose, which typically have red or pink eyes.
Similar cases of leucistic moose have been reported in Alaska and Canada, although they remain exceedingly difficult to find and photograph.
Brendhagen’s stunning images offer a rare opportunity for many to witness the captivating beauty of the “legendary” white moose. The photographs showcase the breathtaking detail of the majestic creature, making them a truly mesmerizing highlight of the year.
Via: Unilad