The "Albino" Black Tail Deer

The Black Tail Deer is widespread throughout the Pacific Northwest. It is listed as a subspecies of Mule Deer, which is a cause for some debate among zoologists. The latest DNA testing leads many to believe it is a separate species.  In general it is a little smaller than either White Tail or Mule Deer. One account suggests that a couple thousand years ago White Tail Deer moved along the East Coast of North America, across the South, and then up the Western Coast. Once it got into the Pacific Northwest it evolved into the Black Tail. As the Black Tail began moving East, it cross bread with the White Tail producing the Mule Deer. I am not an expect at this, but found that interesting. Nonetheless, it is the dominant deer on the Olympic Peninsula. Further adding to the controversy is the "Albino Black Tail Deer." Although not a true albino, its' coloration is "blotchy" at best, as you can see in the above photo. The cause of the coloration (or discoloration) is unknown. There is a fair amount of information about Blacktails, but mostly in regards to hunting.  I would be interested if anyone knew more about this condition. This was a very early photo of mine -- before I took good records. It was taken somewhere on the Olympic Peninsula along the Coastal flatlands.