This is No Ordinary Alligator!
The White Alligator at Dickerson Park Zoo
May 1-August 31, 2002

During Summer 2002, Dickerson Park Zoo will be the home of the white alligator.  But, this white alligator is no “ordinary” alligator. True albino alligators are both rare and unusual. Of the estimated population of five million American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis), only 30 known true albino alligators exist today.Its white coloration results from a rare, genetically inherited condition that prevents the animal from producing melanin. Melanin is the dark brown pigment responsible for the natural coloration found in skin, fur, feathers, scales and eyes.

White Alligator Fun Facts

• Size of adult American Alligators: 6-12 feet long.
• Typical weight range for adult American Alligators:  200-1,000 pounds
• A true albino, the white alligator has white skin due to lack of skin pigment.
• Albino alligators have red or pink eyes because blood vessels in the eyes are not hidden by normal pigment of the pupil and retina.
• Without natural coloration for camouflage, white alligators are easy targets for prey.
• The white alligator is very sensitive to sunlight, requiring shelter to avoid sunburn.
• The white alligator at Dickerson Park Zoo is on loan from St. Augustine Alligator Farm in Florida.

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