Rare Animal Captured on Camera: Extraordinary Photos of One of the World's Most Elusive Creatures

This stunning image features Mahina, a striking pure white humpback whale, captured during the 2026 World Nature Photographer of the Year competition.

In this photograph, Mahina swims alongside her protective mother. At just two years old, Mahina—which translates to “moon” in Tongan—is incredibly unique, as only one in 40,000 humpback whales is born with such a rare lack of coloration.

Scientists are still debating the cause of Mahina’s ethereal appearance, which could stem from either albinism or leucism.

Albinism is a genetic mutation that inhibits the production of melanin, leading to a complete lack of pigmentation in skin, hair, and eyes. However, Mahina’s black eyes—which are atypical for albino animals—raise the possibility of leucism, a condition characterized by a partial lack of pigmentation.

Another well-known white humpback whale, Migaloo, provides further intrigue. Discovered in Byron Bay, Australia, in 1991, Migaloo was long presumed to be leucistic due to his black eyes. Yet, an analysis of his skin samples in 2011 revealed that he is, in fact, an albino.

Regardless of Mahina’s true condition, photographer Jono Allen emphasizes the significance of her sighting: “Observing such rare individuals reignites hope for the potential of conservation efforts and the prosperity of wildlife.”

Check out more winning images from the contest below.

Namaqua chameleon thrives in the harsh Namib Desert – Image courtesy of Dewald Tromp/WNPA