Someone caught this amazing collection of three distinctively coloured squirrels in their yard, in what could be seen as a once-in- a-lifetime nature photography chance. All harmoniously coexisting in the same area, this rare occurrence combines the common grey squirrel, the less often seen black squirrel, and the somewhat rare white squirrel. In the field of wildlife viewing, this event is very unique given the statistical likelihood of seeing such a gathering—let alone filming it.
Since these colour variations usually arise from genetic changes influencing melanin production, the image offers an interesting research subject in natural diversity within a single species. Although black squirrels are melanistic varieties are abundant in some areas, white squirrels are especially rare, so the assembly of this trio is even more amazing. These three different people were comfortable enough to forage together, implying they might share the same territory or food sources and provides a rare window into squirrel social dynamics. This chance for serendipity not only offers a great picture but also acts as a teaching window into the variety that exists within one species—right in our own backyards.
