Guelph amateur nature photographer Raghuvamsh Chavali got quite the surprise this week, capturing a relatively rare black and white squirrel with his camera.
"Today, I am thrilled to share an extraordinary encounter that left me in awe," Chavali wrote in an email to GuelphToday.
"As an avid wildlife photographer, I am constantly immersed in the beauty of nature and always excited to find something rare, but nothing could have prepared me for the incredible sighting I had in my own backyard—a rare black and white squirrel."
He spotted the squirrel in the backyard of his home near the Imperial Road/Thornhill Drive Intersection
Squirrels are generally known for their typical grey, black or brown coats, with some albino squirrels also in the mix. Chavali calls a black and white variation, the result of a genetic element, a remarkable find.
"Such sightings are relatively uncommon, and these captivating squirrels have attracted attention worldwide. International magazines have published articles recognizing the rarity of these colour morphs, further emphasizing their significance. However, encountering these fascinating creatures in our own backyard remains a special and noteworthy occurrence."
He said that by sharing his photos, he hopes to "foster a greater appreciation for the natural world and encourage others to keep an eye out for the unexpected wonders that may grace our own backyards."
