Florida Park Unveils Incredible Alligator with Mysteriously Half-Missing Jaw
Meet the resilient alligator who captured hearts at Florida's Gatorland! Despite a missing top half of its jaw, this remarkable reptile has now been given a name Inspired by a timeless country music tune, this fierce yet captivating creature embodies strength and beauty
The alligator that was found roaming Central Florida with the upper part of its jaw missing has been given a name at Gatorland. In a social media video released on Wednesday, the park announced that the name was inspired by a popular country music song from several decades ago, which depicts a charming love rival.
Jawlene, named after Dolly Parton's 1973 hit "Jolene," is currently undergoing isolated treatment at Gatorland, separate from other animals. According to Savannah Boan, the crocodilian enrichment coordinator, the female alligator has gained approximately 0.3 grams (or 0.01 ounces).
Earlier this month, Gatorland selected Jawlene from a list of names submitted by park visitors and fans of the popular reptile, as informed by Mark McHugh, the park's CEO, in a video.
McHugh also revealed that on Wednesday, Jawlene achieved a significant accomplishment by consuming two mice entirely by herself, utilizing the back of her tongue.
Tips for surviving an alligator attack - or, even better, evading one altogether
The park has been discussing the possibility of getting a prosthetic upper jaw for Jawlene with prosthetics makers who specialize in animal and human prosthetics. However, they have decided to postpone this decision for now. McHugh mentioned that it's important for the alligator to first adjust to her new surroundings and gain more weight. He further emphasized that Jawlene is a valuable asset to the park.
