An exceptionally rare white leucistic alligator has made her debut at Gatorland Orlando, marking a historic moment for reptile enthusiasts worldwide.
The 49-centimeter female hatched from her shell, joining the ranks of a few known leucistic alligators and setting a new milestone in the park's history.
\"This is beyond rare. It is absolutely extraordinary,\" said Mark McHugh, president and CEO of Gatorland, in a statement.
Gatorland is inviting the public to participate in naming the blue-eyed newborn, who is the first solid white alligator recorded to descend from a unique leucistic nest discovered in Louisiana's swamps in 1987.
Of the seven remaining alligators from that original nest, three now reside at Gatorland.
Leucistic alligators are the rarest genetic variation in the American alligator population, distinct from albino alligators which have pink eyes and a complete lack of pigmentation, according to Gatorland.
Visitors will have the opportunity to view the leucistic alligator and her normally colored sibling early next year. In the meantime, the park continues to safeguard their well-being, closely monitoring their health and growth.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
