Gatorland, the “Alligator Capital of the World,” has announced the birth of an extremely rare leucistic white alligator at its Orlando park. With the birth of this incredible baby alligator, Gatorland now has the largest collection of rare leucistic alligators in the world.
“Oh boy, we have some exciting news here at Gatorland,” exclaimed Mark McHugh, President and CEO of Gatorland. “For the first time since a nest of leucistic alligators was discovered in the swamps of Louisiana 36 years ago, we have the first birth of a solid white alligator ever recorded from those original alligators. This is beyond “rare,” it is absolutely extraordinary!”
Leucistic alligators are the rarest genetic variation in the American alligator. They differ from albino alligators, which have pink eyes and a complete loss of pigment. Leucism in alligators causes white coloration, but they often have patches or splotches of normal coloration on their skin. Without the darker skin pigmentation, they can’t have direct sunlight for long periods of time because they sunburn easily. Leucistic alligators also have brilliant blue eyes compared to the pink eyes of an albino alligator.
According to McHugh, the new baby female leucistic alligator and her normal colored brother, born to parents Jeyan and Ashley, weigh 96 grams and are currently 49 cm long. Gatorland’s veterinarian has given them an A+ on their recent health check-up. They eat bite-size pieces of raw chicken and tiny Croc Chow pellets made to supplement nutrition.
“These are incredibly special animals in the reptile world, and we are being very careful with their safety and security. We plan to have them on display early next year so guests can see them, learn about them, and fall in love with them like we have. For now, however, we continue to keep them safe where we can closely monitor their health and growth,” added McHugh. Gatorland is asking the public to help name the beautiful white female and her normal colored brother by posting suggestions on the park’s social media, through Facebook, YouTube or Instagram.
Gatorland combines Old Florida charm with exciting experiences, exhibits, and entertainment. Originally opened as a roadside attraction in 1949, the park will be celebrating its 75th Anniversary in 2024.
