A group of wildlife photographers silently pursued a rare white beaver on a calm river near Perth, Ont., propelled by an electric trolling motor. The creature dove underwater after sensing their presence with a loud splash, showcasing its elusive nature. Ottawa photographer Dennis Jackson, known for his wildlife captures, was surprised by the unexpected encounter with the mythical white beaver.
Accompanied by Canadian naturalist Michael Runtz, professional photographer Britta Runtz, and a CBC reporter, Jackson sought out the albino or leucistic status of the white beaver spotted on a previous boat trip. Despite the creature reappearing at dusk, its reaction to human presence raised uncertainties about further observations.
The photographers observed the white beaver swimming underwater, revealing a pale tail and dark features upon surfacing. Michael Runtz deduced the creature to be leucistic based on its dark eyes and paw fur patch. The sighting delighted the retired Carleton University professor, emphasizing the rarity of a white beaver with dark features.
The group successfully captured photographs of the white beaver, confirming its unique appearance. Although color mutations in beavers can occur, lighter coats may pose risks from predators due to increased visibility. The rarity of white beavers, as seen in a 1918 leucistic beaver pelt at the Canadian Museum of Nature, suggests limited evolutionary advantages for such mutations.
For Dennis Jackson, the significance of the sighting lay in its extraordinary nature rather than its scientific implications. He expressed awe at the experience as he navigated the boat back home, considering it one of the most remarkable encounters he had witnessed.
