White Alligator dies at Audubon Aquarium

Alena Cover

Spots, the white alligator at the Audubon Aquarium, died Monday, Sept. 7 at 28-years-old. The cause of death is currently under investigation by a team of veterinarians.

Spots was one of an estimated 15 white alligators in the Unites States. His rare coloring was due to a genetic condition called leucism, that causes reduced production of skin pigmentation.

Spots was born in a Louisiana swamp and discovered by land surveyors as an infant, and later given to the Audubon Zoo. Spots has experienced many of New Orleans’ events, such as Hurricane Katrina. His siblings, found the same day, are still living in other zoos across the country.