JACKSON, Wyo. — No, that’s not snow on its face.
The National Elk Refuge (NER) has shared a video of its resident piebald elk; piebaldism is a genetic condition causing an animal to have white patches in its coat due to lack of pigment, per the NER.
“This little elk has been creating quite the buzz with wildlife watchers on the refuge recently, and at times has been visible from the National Elk Refuge Sleigh Rides!” the NER posted to social media.
Piebaldism occurs in less than 1 in 100,000 elk by most estimations, making this NER resident quite the special guest. Another piebald elk made waves after a sighting in Colorado in 2025.
Have you seen the piebald elk? Send in a photo to be featured on Buckrail! Use this form to submit your best shot.
