A rare albino buffalo nicknamed "Donald Trump" for its flowing blond hair has been rescued from Eid al-Adha sacrifice by the Bangladesh government and will be housed at the national zoo in Dhaka.
The 700-kilogramme bull had been due for slaughter on Thursday as part of Eid al-Adha, one of Islam's most significant festivals. Also known as the "feast of the sacrifice", the holiday commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
Also read: Albino buffalo nicknamed ‘Donald Trump’ draws Eid crowds in Bangladesh
Muslims across the world mark the occasion by sacrificing livestock, typically goats, sheep, cows, or buffaloes with the meat distributed among family, neighbours, and those in need. In Bangladesh alone, more than 12 million animals are expected to be sacrificed this year.
The bull, owned by Zia Uddin Mridha of Dhaka's Keraniganj area, had been named "Trump" by his brother for its "extraordinary hair" resembling the signature look of the US president. The animal quickly became a social media sensation, drawing crowds of visitors, including children and onlookers, eager to photograph it.
Mridha had sold the buffalo ahead of Eid. But hours before it was to be slaughtered, the government intervened.
"The livestock department requested us to take the buffalo from the owner as it is a rare animal," Mohammad Ruhul Quddus, officer-in-charge of Keraniganj Police Station, told AFP. "They said that the albino buffalo is still very young, and can be raised for a few years."
The animal has since been moved to the national zoo. Curator Atiqur Rahman confirmed a dedicated shed and caregiver have been arranged. "He will be quarantined for two weeks," Rahman told AFP.
