Orange alligator: Evolution or dye job?
A one-of-a-kind orange alligator was spotted in Venice, Florida, Wednesday, prompting some to speculate that after remaining unchanged for 200 million years, the large reptiles are now taking a new evolutionary direction.
But probably not. After examining a photo of the vibrant crocodilian taken by resident Sylvia Mythen, wildlife experts reported its color probably isn't genetic.
WWSB-TV reporter Fallon Silcox quotes Florida Fish and Wildlife official Gary Morse: "The official opinion from our alligator experts is that this is alligator is . We believe it's orange from paint, stain, iron oxide or some other element in the environment that has left a coating on the animal, making it appear orange."
"Iron oxide" is a fancy scientist term for "rust." The experts did not speculate whether the gator simply ate too many navel oranges 鈥� not normally a part of the animal's diet 鈥� or that it overdid it on the bronzing lotion.
Another possibility is that it is an elaborate publicity stunt by the University of Florida Gators, whose colors are blue and you-know-what.
In any case, the creature almost certainly needs protection, as its lack of natural camouflage could tempt hunters in search of a pair of very tacky shoes.
