When you think of a Tortoise, you’re probably picturing a slow creature with earthy tones that help it camouflage in its environment.
But Goldie, a rare Albino Tortoise, stands out like a dazzling gem! Taken care of by Ianski Tan, Goldie isn’t just pleasing to the eye; he’s also a gentle companion with a fun personality that makes him truly unforgettable.
ENDEARING CHEESEBALL
Tortoises in general are sort of quiet and reserved animals. According to Ianski, “They are usually shy, and most albinos are partially blind, [so] feeding them requires delicate assistance and supervision as they sometimes miss their food due to poor eyesight.”
As an albino, Goldie has a bright golden hue, which is how he earned his nickname of “Cheeseball on Four Legs”. Completely accurate, if you ask us.
A DAY IN GOLDIE’S LIFE
Their daily routine starts at around 7 in the morning, when Ianski gets to see some of Goldie’s quirks shine through.
For example, when Goldie yawns, it lasts quite a while, with his mouth agape in a funny way. And when it’s time for his soaking bath, Goldie suddenly transforms into a playful creature splashing around “like a little child,” as Ianski put it.
Goldie’s days are quiet and simple, with a majority of them spent sleeping, eating, and lounging around, as is the case with most Tortoises. When awake, Goldie explores his surroundings. “Since [Goldie is] partially blind, [he] bumps into [his] surroundings and just constantly walks around the enclosure sniffing and investigating stuff.”
DREAM COME TRUE
For Ianski, Goldie is more than just an animal companion; he’s a dream realized. “To be able to produce an Albino Tortoise is [a] feat and a dream of mine,” he says.
Albino Tortoises are rare, and Goldie’s existence is the result of a genetic roll of the dice, with both of his parents carrying the recessive albinism gene. “In my years of keeping Tortoises, it’s truly rewarding . . . it was by chance but also a gift From God.”
HOW DO ANIMALS BECOME ALBINOS?
Albinism is a congenital condition characterized by the absence of melanin, the pigment responsible for the coloration in your skin, eyes, and hair.
It’s usually inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, which means that an animal needs to inherit two copies of the mutated gene (one from each parent) to express albinism.
These special genes are a result of a spontaneous genetic mutation or, in some cases, exposure to certain chemicals or radiation during embryonic development.
It’s essential to note that albinism is different from leucism, which is a reduction or absence of melanin in skin, hair, or feathers, but not in the eyes.
ALBINO ADVENTURES
Although great to look at, Goldie comes with his own set of challenges for his caretaker.
Because of albinism, his eyes are particularly sensitive to light. Ianski makes sure to adjust their lights to a much lower output so as not to stress Goldie too much or cause eye damage.
In general, Albino Tortoises are much more delicate than their non-albino counterparts, requiring extra attention to ensure their safety and comfort.
Ianski advises potential caretakers to approach Albino Tortoises with care and understanding: “It is important to treat them delicately, since in the wild, many won’t survive. It’s one of those golden chocolates [you find] in the box, and they are very expensive . . make sure to provide shelter, food, and water at all times.”
GOLDEN MESSAGE
Taking care of this golden Tortoise has been nothing short of joy. “It’s truly rewarding,” Ianski says.
Goldie might not interact as actively as other pets, but that doesn’t make him any less of a companion. For Ianski, every moment spent with him is a reminder of life’s small but meaningful joys: a yawn, a splash, a little stumble in the enclosure.
Goldie’s story is about resilience, patience, joy and the unique bonds we create with the animals in our care. Through his quirks and his beautiful golden glow, he reminds us of the beauty in differences.
If you do end up taking care of an albino animal, cherish them and always have patience: While they may be a little different, they still have the same heart ready to love you!
