Rare Golden Creature Resembling Beloved Pokémon Found in Australia: Real-Life Pikachu Discovery
Pikachu Makes a Real-Life Appearance: The Story of the Golden Possum
Pikachu, the beloved Pokémon character, seems to have made an unexpected appearance in real life! Not in the world of Pokémon video games but in the form of a golden possum. This intriguing creature, an orphaned brushtail possum with a vibrant yellow coat, found its way to the Boronia Veterinary Clinic in Melbourne a few years ago, leaving the staff in awe, and they couldn’t help but refer to it as “Pikachu.”
The unique hue of this golden possum is the result of a genetic abnormality, considering that these marsupials are typically brown in color. The mutation leads to “a low level of the pigment melanin, which gives them their usual color,” as explained in a Facebook post by the clinic. While we can admire the magnificent coat of this possum, it’s not an ideal feature for survival in the wild. In fact, the clinic notes, “They are quite scarce in the wild, and while their vivid color makes them stand out to humans, it also makes them more visible to predators!”
Fortunately, this rescued Pikachu possum has managed to survive and thrive. After spending a night in Boronia, it was placed in a wildlife refuge where it can enjoy a long and happy life. It’s important to note that this Pikachu-like possum is not the only one of its kind spotted. Wildlife Victoria, a non-profit animal protection organization, receives calls about these unique creatures but keeps their whereabouts confidential to protect them.
This rare golden possum, reminiscent of Pikachu in real life, is native to Australia, and its distinctive coloring is a result of a genetic mutation, as explained by the Boronia Veterinary Clinic in Melbourne, which causes “a low level of the pigment melanin, which gives them their usual color.” This extraordinary possum’s appearance is a testament to the wonders of the natural world, and it has captured the hearts of many who have encountered it.
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