The Gators Are Back, the Gators Are Back!

What's dark green, has big teeth, a nasty disposition, and just moved into Stoneham?

If you guessed Godzilla you'd be close, but wrong. Two American Alligators made their spring return to the Stone Zoo Monday. The gators arrived from Florida after temperatures in Massachusetts hit acceptable levels for the animals' health. They will be on exhibit until temperatures fall again, around October.

American Alligators can grow to a length of 16 feet and are native to Southeastern United States. Although they wouldn't hold still for my tape measure, the Stone gators appear to be about 6-feet long. Alligators were once hunted for their skin and were considered endangered in the 1950s. But since then federal protections have helped them make a strong comeback.

And there's another new resident of the Stone Zoo. Last Tuesday night a baby reindeer was born and mom (Holly) and baby (unnamed) are doing well. In case you're wondering, the baby reindeer is much cuter than the alligators. See for yourself.

If you want to meet the newest Stoneham residents, the zoo is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 10-6 on weekends and major holidays. Tickets are $16.95 for adults, $14.95 for seniors, $11.95 for children ages 2-12, and children under 2 are fee.