Albino Gator Turns Pink When Moved to Iowa

[Lisa]

Move to Iowa Turns Albino Alligator Pink
Monday May 31, 2004
DES MOINES, Iowa - An albino alligator became so excited when he got to Iowa, he turned pink. That's according to officials at Blank Park Zoo, who got the 8-foot-long reptile on Thursday for an exhibit of albino animals.

"Albino alligators turn pink with excitement as they adjust to their new environment," said David Allen, the zoo's director. "We think it'll settle down by the beginning of the week after a little Iowa relaxation."

When zoo officials first got the animal from Florida, they planned to keep it under wraps until its regular complexion returned.

Then, someone realized the marketing potential. Hundreds of schoolchildren packed the zoo Friday to get a peek at "Pinkie," as the zoo's chief executive dubbed the creature.

Zoo officials said most of Pinkie's blush had faded by late Friday, but his face maintained a pink glow. They think that will remain through the weekend.

The display will also include an albino python, catfish, salamander, and a white camel.