WHITE GOLD AS RARE JOEY BORN AT ZOO

AN incredible rare white koala has been born at Australia Zoo, delighting visitors and veterinarians alike.

The Sunshine Coast wildlife park has been in the midst of “joey season” for a few months, and a new flurry arrivals are finally emerging from mothers’ pouches.

But among them was something not often seen – a very pale youngster that added an extra element of surprise.

Dr Rosie Booth, director of the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, explained it’s not albinism, where colour is absent from skin, fur and eyes.

The female joey’s pale colour is the result of a recessive gene likely inherited from her mum Tia, who has birthed other pale coloured joeys.

“Just like baby teeth, they eventually shed their baby fur and the regular adult colouration comes through,” Dr Booth said.

Tourism Australia is calling for suggestions for a name for the joey via its Facebook page.