The white colouration in white lions is due to a recessive gene, similar to that of humans who have blue eyes!Īre white lions currently classified as endangered? By comparison, albino lions lack any pigmentation at all, and they have a characteristic pink or red colouration to their features. White lions have a blue or gold colouration in their eyes, black features on the tip of their nose, and even an “eye-liner” type marking around their eyes.
Back in 1997, a study by Cruickshank and Robinson conclusively discovered that white lions cannot be classified as albino. This is a common misconception, but no, white lions are not albino. White lions naturally occur in a very specific range in South Africa, between the Greater Timbavati and the Southern Kruger National Park.Ĭurrently, according to the White Lion Trust, there are only 13 white lions remaining in the wild. That is why, alongside the launch of our new White Lion Project over in South Africa, we are going to bring you the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about White Lions! These mysterious animals have captivated people the world over, but due to their rarity not a lot is known about them. Whilst they are one of the majestic and beautiful animals alive today, the majority of people know very little about White Lions.