Couple Rescues Rare Albino Hedgehog

Most hedgehogs are of a fairly dark appearance and blend into the dark quite nicely.

But 1 in 100,000 of the species are unfortunately born with a recessive gene that means there are no melanin pigments present in their skin, eyes and pigments. Such hedgehogs are of a white disposition and stand out brightly at night.

There are estimated to be only 100 such species in England but the Packhams found one glowing in the dark. They named it Midnight to coincide with the time he was discovered.

The Packhams had the presence of mind to realize that such a species had limited camouflage opportunities and was a sitting duck for badgers in the area. The decided to make the 250 mile round trip to deliver Midnight to Tiggywinkles Wildlife Hospital.

The Hospital is unlikely to release the animal back into the wildlife any time soon given its low probability of survival.