How do leucistic ferrets typically differ visually from true albinos regarding eye color?
Answer
Leucistic ferrets often possess blue eyes
Leucism is a distinct genetic condition from true albinism, primarily affecting pigment reduction in the fur, resulting in a white appearance. Crucially, leucism generally does not impact the pigment cells within the eyes. As a result, leucistic ferrets frequently retain blue eyes, providing a clear diagnostic distinction when compared to true albinos, who lack melanin entirely, resulting in pink or red eyes where blood vessels show through. This difference in eye coloration stems from the differing genetic mechanisms governing the expression of pigmentation in the two conditions.
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