The Houston Zoo is a popular destination for animal enthusiasts, but one creature that has long captured the imagination of visitors is the elusive “albino crocodile.” However, the truth is that the Houston Zoo does not actually have an albino crocodile. Instead, it was home to a unique and fascinating leucistic alligator named Blanco, who has since been relocated to a new home.
The Myth of the Albino Crocodile
For years, rumors and stories have circulated about an albino crocodile residing at the Houston Zoo. This myth has been fueled by various online articles and social media posts, leading many visitors to the zoo in search of this rare and captivating creature. Unfortunately, the reality is quite different.
The Truth: Blanco, the Leucistic Alligator
The Houston Zoo was home to a leucistic American alligator named Blanco, who was born in 1987. Leucism is a condition that results in a partial loss of pigmentation, giving the animal a pale or white appearance, but unlike albinism, the eyes remain their natural color.
Blanco’s Unique Appearance
Blanco’s striking white coloration and blue eyes made him a truly remarkable sight. Unlike a true albino, he had a few spots of brown on his body, and his eyes were a vibrant blue, rather than the characteristic red eyes of an albino animal.
Blanco’s Size and Age
Blanco was a sizable alligator, measuring 11 feet in length and weighing 180 pounds. He lived a long life, residing at the Houston Zoo for nearly three decades before being relocated in 2016.
Blanco’s Relocation to Crocodile Encounter
In 2016, at the age of 29, Blanco was relocated from the Houston Zoo to the Crocodile Encounter complex near Angleton, Texas. This move was made to provide Blanco with a more specialized and comfortable environment to meet his unique needs.
Reasons for Relocation
The decision to relocate Blanco was made to ensure he received the best possible care as he entered his golden years. The Crocodile Encounter complex was better equipped to handle the specific requirements of a leucistic alligator, such as providing the appropriate lighting and habitat conditions.
Blanco’s New Home
At the Crocodile Encounter, Blanco continues to be a beloved and well-cared-for resident. The facility is dedicated to the conservation and education of crocodilians, making it an ideal home for this unique and fascinating animal.
Visiting Blanco at Crocodile Encounter
For those interested in seeing Blanco in person, the Crocodile Encounter complex near Angleton, Texas, is the place to go. The facility offers guided tours and educational programs, allowing visitors to learn about Blanco and other crocodilian species.
Visitor Information
The Crocodile Encounter is open to the public, and visitors can purchase tickets to explore the facility and see Blanco. The complex also offers various educational programs and events throughout the year, providing an engaging and informative experience for all ages.
Conclusion
While the myth of an albino crocodile at the Houston Zoo may have captured the imagination of many, the reality is that the zoo was home to a remarkable leucistic alligator named Blanco. This unique and fascinating creature has since found a new home at the Crocodile Encounter complex, where he continues to be a beloved and well-cared-for resident. For those interested in learning more about Blanco and other crocodilian species, a visit to the Crocodile Encounter is a must-do experience.
References:
- https://www.chron.com/news/houston-texas/houston/article/Houston-Zoo-s-white-alligator-Blanco-retiring-7226541.php
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9CgM_i0N5LY
- https://abc13.com/alligator-houston-zoo-rare-white/1276714/