Artist: American Alligator

Name: Shawn

Colors: Green with Gold Sparkle

Medium: Tempera Paint

Painting Style: Abstract

Cavas Panel

Size: 14" x 18"

Artist Bio:

Shawn is an American Alligator. He lives with his brother Gus (named for the popular tv series Psych). The Zoo's resident InvestiGATORS love to explore their exhibit. When they aren't painting artwork, they enjoy snacking.

Artist: American Alligator

Name: Chucky

Colors: Blue, Green

Medium: Tempera Paint and a little mud

Painting Style: Abstract

Canvas Panel

Size: 10" x 10"

Artist Bio:

Chucky is approximately 11 feet long and weighing in over 1,000 lbs. He is expected to be in his mid-forties.

Chucky caused quite the stir in 2004 after Hurricane Ivan after he "escaped" (floated out of) his enclosure at the zoo's old location, but thankfully, he was found safe and sound and had never left zoo property.

American alligators can be found in slow-moving freshwater rivers but also inhabit swamps, marshes, and lakes. Alligators are considered a keystone species because of their impact on their environment and the other species that call these areas home. These holes are left behind by the alligator and later fill with freshwater and are used by other species for breeding and drinking.