Rare Albino Buffalo in Bangladesh Spared from Eid Sacrifice
A rare albino buffalo in Bangladesh, nicknamed Donald Trump for its distinctive blond tuft, has been spared from Eid al-Adha sacrifice after a last-minute government intervention. The nearly 700-kg (1,543 lb) animal had already been sold for ritual slaughter when authorities stepped in, citing security concerns following a surge of public interest ahead of the festival.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed ordered the buffalo to be spared, the buyer refunded, and the animal moved to the national zoo in Dhaka. A ministry official explained: "At the last moment, the decision was taken to spare the buffalo from sacrifice due to security concerns and the unusual level of public interest."
Viral Sensation During Eid Season
What began as a routine Eid purchase quickly turned into a nationwide curiosity after videos of the buffalo went viral. Crowds gathered at the farm, with visitors travelling from far afield to see its blond fringe and calm demeanour. Farm owner Ziauddin Mridha said the nickname came from his younger brother, who spotted the resemblance. He added that the animal is unusually gentle and requires careful upkeep, including frequent feeding and regular baths.
Albino Buffaloes Rare in Bangladesh
Albino buffaloes are exceptionally rare in Bangladesh, where most cattle are dark. This made the animal stand out during the peak Eid livestock season. While its striking appearance drew attention, it was the nickname that likely saved its life. The buffalo, now four years old, has been rehomed at the national zoo. Albino buffaloes can live up to 20 years in captivity but need extra care due to their sensitivity to sunlight.
Mridha emphasised the animal's temperament: "It is very calm in nature. Albino buffaloes are generally peaceful and do not become aggressive unless provoked."
Internet Fame Secures Survival
The buffalo's internet stardom ultimately ensured its survival. Videos showcasing its blond tuft and gentle nature transformed it into a tourist attraction, prompting federal authorities to intervene. The Dhaka zoo now welcomes the gentle albino buffalo, rehomed after government intervention.
In related news, Germany recently reported three cases of foot-and-mouth disease in water buffalo on a farm near Berlin, the country's first reported cases since 1988. Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious viral infection that is not dangerous to humans but affects cattle and other cloven-hoofed animals, including sheep and pigs. Symptoms include fever and blisters in the mouth and near the hoof. The cases in the eastern state of Brandenburg were confirmed by the federal government's Institute for Animal Health.
