Pikachu is that you? Rare golden possum given Pokemon-themed name
An Australian possum is gaining attention for the unique color of its fur, prompting it to be
The bright yellow color comes from the animal’s genetic mutation that results in low levels of melanin. Low levels of melanin cause the fur to become golden in color.
Pikachu is currently living at the Boronia Veterinary Clinic in Melbourne, Australia. The little creature arrived alone, and its caretakers said it’s likely the 5-month-old baby fell off its mother’s back.
It’s unlikely the animal will be reintroduced into the wild because of its fur color.
“One of the issues with unusual colours, particularly if they are pale, is this a nocturnal animal and if they are pale they are obvious to predators like an owl,” said Dr. Kath Handasyde from Melbourne University’s School of BioSciences.
Pikachu isn’t the first golden colored possum to be discovered.
“We do get calls about them, there are little pockets of them in Victoria and we try to keep their location secret to keep them safe,” Caroline Dazey from Wildlife Victoria said.