Orange alligator seen in Florida

An orange alligator has been spotted in Florida.

The brightly-coloured amphibian was seen basking near a swamp in Venice and obviously stood out next to its' green brethren.

The sighting initially sparked excitement amongst wildlife biologists and scientists who believed the animal could be an evolutionary change in the species.

However, after examining a photo taken by local resident Sylvia Mythen experts have come to the conclusion the colour of the animal isn't a genetic change.

Florida Fish and Wildlife official Gary Morse told WWSB-TV: "The official opinion from our alligator experts is that this is alligator is not naturally orange. We believe it's orange from paint, stain, iron oxide or some other element in the environment that has left a coating on the animal, making it appear orange."

Iron oxide is the scientific term for rust, which the animal could have come into contact with at a factory or chemical plant in the area.