The world is filled with unique beings that adds to the diverse puzzle we call earth.
We’ve seen animals with albinism, leucism, but have you ever seen an animal with piebaldism?
Meet Dragon, this adorable baby deer who was rejected from his mother at birth. The little deer found a new loving home at Deer Tracks Junction, an animal farm on Cedar Springs, Mich, where he was also named dragon because of its difficulties for survival.
#1
Dragon is piebald. Piebaldism is a condition characterized by the absence of cells called melanocytes in certain areas of the skin and hair. Melanocytes produce the pigment melanin, which contributes to hair, eye, and skin color. The absence of melanocytes leads to patches of skin and hair that are lighter than normal. For this reason, Dragons’ face and underbody remain white.
#2
Piebaldism is quite a rare condition. Only around !% of deer are born this way. This condition reduces their chance of survival after their mother abandons them since they are more visible to the predators. They can’t hear or see very well, which adds up more to the risk of predators. Despite other deer in this condition, Dragon was very lucky to have been born at Deer Tracks Junction, so that he would be protected and raised by humans when his mother abandoned him.
#3
As much as people were enjoying his company, unfortunately, Dragon passed away just before his first birthday due to health complications. “Well, sadly, this is an update that I never wanted to have to make. Despite all medical intervention available, we lost our little Dragon. It has been a tough time here, and he will be greatly missed by all,” shared Deer Tracks Junction on their Facebook page.
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