24/10/2026
From a small glass tank containing only a few inches of water to a purpose-built home designed around her future - Lacoste’s story demonstrates the reality of caring for an animal like an American alligator.
Providing suitable care involves far more than finding a large enclosure. Lacoste needs a secure specialist habitat, a properly heated pool, powerful filtration, an appropriate diet, veterinary support and regular enrichment. These needs must be met every day, potentially for several decades.
Because Lacoste grew far more quickly than expected - reaching almost six feet long by the age of six - plans to expand her home had to be brought forward by several years. Fundraising, public donations and collaborative work between the GTKA team, supporters and specialist businesses made the upgrade possible, with her new enclosure completed in June 2026.
Lacoste has certainly made herself at home - and her beloved footballs have come with her! ⚽ They’re more than a fun personality quirk: enrichment gives her opportunities to investigate, move around and interact with her surroundings.
Although the build is complete, the cost of caring for Lacoste and GTKA’s other rescued residents continues every day. Our self-funded sanctuary is home to more than 300 animals, all requiring food, heating, cleaning, enrichment and specialist care.
You can support their future by making a one-off or monthly donation, adopting an animal, becoming an annual member, booking a visit or simply sharing our work.
Visit gtka.co.uk to find out more. Every visit, adoption, donation and share helps us continue providing the specialist care these animals deserve. 💚
