Rare albino buffalo nicknamed 'Trump' saved from slaughter in Bangladesh

An albino buffalo, nicknamed 'Donald Trump' for its unusual blonde mane and appearance, has been saved from slaughter in Bangladesh. The rare animal was destined for sacrifice during the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha but was transferred to the national zoo in Dhaka after the government intervened.

The buffalo's peculiar looks, including a hairstyle reminiscent of the former U.S. president, turned it into an internet sensation. This viral attention prompted the government to ensure its conservation.

"Today, an exceptional event has been added to the history of livestock and biodiversity in Bangladesh," announced Sultan Salahuddin Tuku, Bangladesh's deputy minister for Fisheries and Livestock, on Facebook. He confirmed the albino buffalo's transfer to the National Zoo in Mirpur, Dhaka.

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Today, an exceptional event has been added to the history of livestock and biodiversity in Bangladesh. A rare albino buffalo has already been transferred to the National Zoo in Mirpur, Dhaka, for conservation.

Officials cited the buffalo's rarity, caused by a melanin deficiency, as a key reason for its protection. "These animals are extremely rare worldwide. Statistics suggest only one in 10,000 buffaloes may be born with this type of albino characteristic," Tuku stated. He emphasized its importance for research, conservation, and biodiversity protection, adding that a special shelter has been prepared with 24-hour veterinary supervision.

The 700-kilogram buffalo was to be sacrificed near Dhaka during Eid al-Adha, a major Islamic festival where millions of cattle are typically slaughtered across the Muslim-majority nation. The government's intervention highlights a growing emphasis on preserving rare wildlife, even amidst traditional religious practices.

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These animals are extremely rare worldwide. Statistics suggest only one in 10,000 buffaloes may be born with this type of albino characteristic. Therefore, it is not only a rare animal but also an extremely important asset for research, conservation, and biodiversity protection.