Ep 8. Snowflake: the White Gorilla

In Nature season 23 episode 8, titled "Snowflake: the White Gorilla," viewers are taken on a journey to learn about the fascinating story of a rare white gorilla. Born in Equatorial Guinea in 1966, Snowflake was the only known white gorilla in the world and captured the hearts of many who saw him. The episode explores the science behind Snowflake's unique white coloring, which was eventually discovered to be the result of a genetic mutation.

Throughout the episode, viewers witness the challenges Snowflake faced as he grew up and dealt with his unusual coloring. Despite the love and care of his zookeepers, Snowflake faced struggles both physical and emotional, including difficulty mating and the stress that comes with his distinct status as a rare and prized specimen. This portion of the episode is intertwined with interviews with experts in primate psychology and biology, who provide insight into the complexities of gorilla behavior and the impact of captivity on the animals.

As Snowflake matures, the episode explores the broader significance of his existence beyond his novelty as a white gorilla. His unique genetics made him an invaluable specimen for researchers, who were able to learn more about gorilla biology from his semen samples. The episode delves into the challenges faced by researchers who are attempting to study wild gorillas, and the potential implications for conservation and preservation of the species.

Overall, "Snowflake: the White Gorilla" is a heartwarming and informative episode of Nature that provides a window into the world of these fascinating creatures. With stunning footage of gorillas in the wild and insightful commentary from experts, viewers will come away with a deeper appreciation for the importance of protecting these magnificent primates.