Have you heard about the scaly surprise that workers from the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation found in Brooklyn’s Prospect Park? It was an alligator! How crazy is that?
According to the department spokesman, Dan Kastanis, the park maintenance staff member spotted the 4-foot alligator in poor condition. Kastanis suggested that the alligator might have been cold-shocked since it is native to warm, tropical climates.
But don’t worry, the Parks Enforcement Control and Urban Park Rangers took care of the alligator and captured it. They transferred it to the Bronx Zoo for rehabilitation, and it is now in good hands.
After getting the animal back to the zoo and examining it for any health issues, The Bronx Zoo found that the alligator had ingested a 4-inch wide bath stopper.
It’s a relief that no one was harmed, including the alligator. The animal was clearly left there by a human and police believe it was likely someone’s pet they didn’t want anymore so they set it free in the lake.
The state wildlife experts say releasing non-indigenous animals or unwanted pets can lead to the elimination of native species and unhealthy water quality, which can have a negative impact on the environment.
As pet owners, we have a responsibility to care for our animals and make sure that they are not a threat to the environment or other animals.
In the end, we’re just happy that the alligator is safe and sound, and that the Parks Enforcement Control and Urban Park Rangers were able to capture and transfer it to the Bronx Zoo for rehabilitation.
Shout out to the dedication and expertise of those who work to protect our public spaces and the wildlife that inhabit them.