Albino crocodile drops jaws

Bred at Croc City on the borders of Broadacres, the albino Nile crocodile is currently the only known albino crocodile hatched and living in South Africa.

Anton Lötter, owner of the crocodile farm, said there is an estimated 20 known albino Nile crocodiles in the known world. This not only makes Snowy special, but valuable.

Lötter with the croc in tow visited Marks Park on 11 July for the launch of The World of Cats and Dogs and Pet Expo set to take place at the Gallagher Convention Centre from 19 to 21 July.

Snowy is one of the unique, but sometimes bizarre and always mesmerising animals that will visit the expo

Snowy is one of the unique, but sometimes bizarre and always mesmerising animals that will visit the expo.

Albino crocodiles’ lighter hides mean that they often fall victim to pray, this is one of the reasons they are so scarce.

Like the other adult reptiles at Croc City, Lötter expects Snowy to reach a length well over 5m.

The Crocodile breeder has been in the breeding game for some time after he and his wife Marietjie started the only crocodile farm in Gauteng. Since then they have raised thousands of crocodiles, producing meat and using the oil of the animals for skincare products.

Other crocodiles are on display where guests to the farm get a crash course in reptiles and their fascinating world.

Some of the crocodiles on the farm are over 5m in length, but instead of mongering fear for the animals Croc City aims to cultivate a deep respect for these gigantic reptiles.

Except for Snowy, poisonous snakes, tarantulas and unique dog and cat breeds, the expo is a paradise for animal lovers which aims to celebrate the Symbian relationship humans share with animals.

The National Cat show will also take place where fascinating feline breeds will make the rounds.

Other events include a Dogs of the World parade, Canine Survivor, the South African Dancing with Dogs championships and the 60-weaving Pole Challenge.

Details: www.dogscats.co.za or www.croccity.co.za