A group of wildlife photographers silently pursued their target along a river near Perth, Ont., using an electric trolling motor to glide upstream on a calm fall evening. The peaceful scene was interrupted by a sudden splash as the elusive white beaver sensed their presence and dove underwater.
Renowned Ottawa photographer Dennis Jackson, known for capturing wildlife images, was surprised by the rare sighting of the white beaver. Accompanied by Canadian naturalist Michael Runtz, professional photographer Britta Runtz, and a CBC reporter, Jackson returned to the river in hopes of encountering the mysterious creature once more.
The photographers were eager to determine whether the white beaver was albino or leucistic, a genetic condition causing partial pigmentation loss. Despite the creature reappearing at dusk, its reaction to the human scent left uncertainty about its continued presence.
Observing the white beaver swimming underwater with its pale tail flashing, the photographers noted a dark patch on its front left paw and dark eyes, indicating it was likely leucistic rather than albino, as Runtz confirmed. The sighting delighted the retired Carleton University professor, who expressed amazement at the unique encounter.
White beavers, a rarity due to color mutations, can face increased visibility and predation risks with lighter coats. The Canadian Museum of Nature even houses a leucistic beaver pelt from 1918 as a testament to their uncommon nature.
Reflecting on the sighting, Jackson emphasized the extraordinary nature of the experience over its scientific implications, steering the boat back home with a sense of awe at the encounter.