In an extremely rare occurrence, two albino jaguar cubs have been born at the Aschersleben Zoo in Germany. The female cubs, named Axl and Balou, were born in May 2022 to a black jaguar mother named Nairobi.

Jaguars with albinism are incredibly uncommon, making the birth of Axl and Balou a remarkable event. Their pristine white fur and pale blue eyes are a stark contrast to their mother’s black coat. The cubs’ lack of pigmentation is caused by a genetic mutation that prevents melanin from forming in the fur, skin and eyes.

“We couldn’t believe it when we saw the white cubs snuggling up to their mother for the first time,” said zoo director Dr. Hannes Lohrengel. “They look almost like polar bear babies next to their dark-furred mother.”

The albino cubs will remain dependent on Nairobi’s care until they are around two years old. Zookeepers have been monitoring the sibling pair closely to ensure they are nursing and developing properly.

While their bright white fur puts them at higher risk of health issues and sun damage, Axl and Balou have access to shaded areas and sunscreen to keep their skin protected. The cubs will also receive specialized veterinary care as needed.

The rare jaguar twins have quickly become stars at the zoo, delighting visitors with their unusual appearance. Their birth provides a unique opportunity for research into their rare genetic mutation.

Albino jaguars only occur approximately once in every 10,000 births. The odds of such uncommon cubs being born from a black jaguar mother make them even more extraordinary. Axl and Balou will continue to be carefully monitored as they grow and become part of the European Endangered Species Program.

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