On March 13, New York State Environmental Conservation Officers (ECOs) seized an 11-foot, 750-pound alligator illegally kept at a residence in the town of Hamburg in Erie County, NY.
ECOs learned the owner of the home had built an addition to his house and installed an in-ground swimming pool to keep the roughly 30-year-old alligator, and, without a permit, allegedly allowed members of the public to get into the water to pet the unsecured alligator.
The alligator has numerous health-related issues, including blindness in both eyes and spinal complications. The individual formerly possessed a DEC license for the alligator, but the license expired in 2021 and was not renewed.
ECOs executed the seizure in conjunction with the town of Hamburg Police Department and the Erie County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in the interest of public safety and the health, safety, and protection of the alligator.
Authorities turned the alligator over to a licensed caretaker who will house and care for the animal until it can be properly transported for permanent care.
Analysis of additional evidence seized during the warrant and consultation with a licensed veterinarian will determine any future potential charges according to an announcement by DEC.
Read more wildlife rescues here.
Photos: ECOs securing seized alligator for transport (provided).