Rare White Killer Whale Spotted Off Japan's Hokkaido Coast

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Photographer Noriyuki Hayakawa captured a rare white killer whale near Rausu Hokkaido Japan marking his first such sighting in 15 years of documenting orcas

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The white orca is believed to have leucism a genetic condition causing partial loss of pigmentation which makes it different from true albinism

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The white orca was seen swimming with a pod of 20 to 30 regular-colored orcas making its pale appearance stand out dramatically

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Despite online skepticism Hayakawa confirmed the authenticity of his photos and videos stating they were not digitally altered

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White orcas have been previously spotted in the Nemuro Strait off Hokkaido suggesting the area may be part of their migration route

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This rare sighting highlights the rich marine biodiversity of Hokkaido’s waters and the importance of continued wildlife observation and conservation

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