A pure-white moose foraging within the lush undergrowth of a Swedish forest. It might sound like something from a fairy tale, but this mythical-looking creature is in fact very real.

According to experts, the ghost-like coat is not caused by albinism, but instead a recessive gene – a genetic mutation that affects moose along with various other animals including birds and reptiles.

Estimates suggest there may be around 100 of these white moose – or elk, as they are often called in Europe – living across Sweden.

Here, footage shows a rare ‘ghost moose’ wandering through the forests of Värmland in south-west Sweden.

Rare footage shows the white moose in the Värmland region of Sweden. Credit: Getty
The moose makes its way down to the water’s edge for a drink. Credit: Getty
There are estimated to be around 100 of this white moose living in Sweden. Credit: Getty

Top image: white moose. Credit: Getty

More amazing wildlife stories from around the world