Rare White Orcas Spotted Swimming With Pod Off Northern Japan

Whale watchers off the coast of northern Japan were stunned after spotting two rare white orcas swimming alongside a pod of normally colored killer whales.

The sighting occurred near the town of Rausu, along the waters of the Nemuro Strait, a region known for seasonal whale-watching tours. Photos and videos shared online show the two pale whales moving in formation with black-and-white orcas, creating a striking contrast against the dark blue sea.

Orcas, also known as killer whales, are typically recognized by their bold black backs and white patches near their eyes and bellies. The two whales observed, however, appeared almost cream or ghostly white — a coloration that experts say is extremely uncommon.

Marine biologists suggest the unusual appearance may be caused by either albinism or leucism. Both conditions involve a lack of pigment, but they differ in how much coloration is lost. Albino animals usually lack pigment entirely, including in their eyes, while leucistic animals retain some pigmentation but appear much lighter than normal.

While scientists have previously documented rare white orcas in Russian and Arctic waters, sightings of more than one at the same time are especially unusual. The fact that the two whales were swimming comfortably with a larger pod suggests they are accepted members of their group despite their rare appearance.

“The chance of seeing even one white orca is incredibly low,” said one marine observer involved in the tour. “To see two together was something none of us expected.”

The encounter quickly drew attention on social media, where images of the pale whales spread widely. Many viewers described the scene as dreamlike, with the white orcas rising and diving through the waves like figures from a storybook.

Experts note that pigmentation differences do not necessarily affect an orca’s ability to hunt or socialize, but lighter coloring may make them more visible to predators or prey. Researchers hope future sightings will provide more insight into how such rare individuals survive and interact within their pods.

For those who witnessed the moment, the science came second to the feeling.

Against the dark sea and distant snowy mountains of Hokkaido, the two pale whales appeared almost unreal — a reminder that even in well-studied oceans, nature can still reveal something completely unexpected.