July 12 is Different Colored Eye Day

Do you know anyone with two different colored eyes? Ever wonder how that happens?

This is due to a special condition called heterochromia. This word comes from “hetero” meaning different, and “chromo” meaning color. Eye color depends on the distribution of melanin, a type of pigment. But sometimes, as with this condition, distribution is altered, causing an excess or lack of melanin. 

Heterochromia is actually seen more frequently in other species, in particular the cat!

Do you know any friends (humans or animals) that have this condition? Tell us about it on Facebook or Twitter!