Uncommon occurrence: Birth of an albino turtle in Drôme

In the tranquility of Drôme, an unexpected and exceptional event recently aroused the attention of fauna enthusiasts: the birth of an albinos turtle. At the heart of the Pierrelatte crocodile farm, where more than 1,200 animals coexist, a small red belly turtle, large as a coin, was born, displaying a fascinating genetic rarity. Albinism, a rare phenomenon in this aquatic species, gives this specimen unique characteristics, attracting curiosity as much researchers as amazed visitors.

A birth that defies the probabilities

On January 23, 2025, the crocodile farm, located in Pierrelatte in the Drôme, celebrated an extraordinary event: the birth of an albino red belly turtle. This extremely rare phenomenon surprised the park's scientific teams, which is used to observing a varied fauna. Albinism in this aquatic species, native to the rivers and swamps of Australia and New Guinea, is a genetic anomaly which affects a tiny number of specimens.

“” “The probability of an albino turtle birth is extremely rare”, Explains at France 3 Auvergne Rhône-Alpes, Antoine Soler, scientific manager of the park. The small turtle, large as a two -euro piece at birth, immediately became an object of fascination for visitors and researchers.

This singularity also recalls similar discoveries, such as that of a giant turtle of Albinos Galapagos born in Switzerland in 2022, a world first for this species.

The park, which houses more than 1,200 animals, including many reptiles, sees in this event an opportunity to better understand the biological specificities linked to albinism.

Biological challenges linked to albinism

Albinism is a genetic disease characterized by a total or partial absence of melanin, the pigment responsible for the coloring of the skin, eyes and scales. In this red belly turtle, this results in pale skin and scales as well as eyes particularly sensitive to light.

This fragility requires specific care. “” “She will not have the right to the UV lamp, nor to too strong light, while turtles love it (…) This birth is a real zootechnical challenge”, Details Antoine Soler, quoted by Huffingtonpost.

To compensate for this lack, trainers give vitamin D3 supplements, a solution necessary to strengthen its bones and its immune system. In addition, the turtle was placed in an aquarium specially designed to limit its exposure to light, while respecting its environmental needs.

In a natural environment, an albino specimen would have a low chances of survival. Its clear pigmentation makes it particularly vulnerable to predators, while its sensitivity to light complicates its adaptation to a wild habitat. This reality underlines the importance of zoological parks to offer a secure environment to such exceptional animals.

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Crocodile farm: a key role in conservation

Located in the Drôme, the crocodile farm is much more than a simple zoological park. With its 8,000 m² of tropical spaces and 350 Crocodilians, the park has become a reference in terms of reptile preservation. It regularly hosts animals seized by the authorities or abandoned by individuals, including aquatic turtles.

The recently born albinos turtle comes from a group of 15 red belly turtles, all collected after being abandoned by their owners. Many of these turtles, bought in pet stores, end up being released or entrusted to parks when they become too large to be kept in domestic captivity.

The park also plays a major educational role by raising public awareness of the challenges linked to the conservation of species. Explanatory panels and interactive presentations allow visitors to better understand the importance of protecting these animals and the ecosystems on which they depend.

A birth of hope for biodiversity

Beyond its exceptional character, this birth highlights the challenges of the conservation of endangered species. Aquatic turtles, like those with a red belly, are often victims of the destruction of their natural habitat or commercial exploitation. The crocodile farm, thanks to its expertise, contributes to the preservation of these species by offering them an adapted environment and by carrying out research on their behavior.

This unique specimen thus becomes an involuntary biodiversity ambassador. He reminds the general public that each individual, even within a relatively common species, can play an essential role in understanding and preserving nature. By emphasizing albinism, a phenomenon still little studied in reptiles, this birth also opens up new perspectives for scientific research.

The park hopes that this exceptional turtle will continue to draw attention to the importance of biodiversity and the efforts necessary to preserve vulnerable species. By combining education, science and conservation, the crocodile farm perfectly illustrates the role that zoological parks can play in the protection of our natural heritage.