Rare blue alligator named Julius joins Gatorland in Central Florida

A rare, blue-colored alligator has a new home at Gatorland after trappers captured the 9-foot reptile in Osceola County.The alligator, named Julius, is a piebald American alligator, a rare variation characterized by patches of skin lacking normal pigmentation. Gatorland shared images of its newest resident on social media.Rare coloring sets Julius apartJulius has unusual blue coloring and a distinctive pupil that staff members identified as possible signs of piebaldism.Piebald animals have areas of unpigmented skin or scales that create irregular patterns. Julius' unusual appearance makes him a notable addition to the park's breeding marsh.Alligator recovering from leg injuryJulius arrived at Gatorland with a leg injury that appears to have healed, according to the park.Staff members are allowing him time to settle into his new surroundings before a veterinarian examines him.Gatorland representatives said newly captured alligators can be lethargic and disoriented, making an immediate e