A blond moose went viral — but his rare color is a disadvantage, experts say

In Alaska’s frigid arctic regions, herds of moose are easily spotted — their usually brown or black-hued coats sticking out against the white winter wonderland.

That is, except for a moose some are calling “Big Blondie”: a light-colored bull who might owe his tinge to a rare genetic mutation.

The tan moose became an overnight sensation after his photo — taken during an aerial survey in November — was shared on Facebook last week by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. But while his rare color attracted lots of attention, the moose’s future might not be … well, quite as bright.