Sisters Pecan and Cashew were rescued earlier this year by Sonflower Ranch and Rescue after a homeowner discovered a family of raccoons in their wall. Due to their leucism, a genetic abnormality that causes partial pigment loss, the two raccoons are unlikely to survive in the wild.
Leucism is the partial loss of all types of pigmentation, including carotenoids. Leucism causes white coloration, white patches, spots, or splotches on the skin or fur. Leucism is also discernible from albinism because leucism does not affect the pigment cells in the eyes.
I have the same question - the only answer I came up with is lack of camouflage. I’ll look it up more when I have more time.
Edit: It is indeed due to their loss of ability to camouflage as well, however, it’s not a certain death sentence, really more of a judgment call on behalf of the zoo.