American Alligator Surrendered On Long Island

SMITHTOWN, NY — An American alligator was turned over to state and Suffolk officials on Wednesday.

Zachary, a 9-year-old, 5-foot gator, was purchased out of state. His owner did not have a permit to own him in New York state and could no longer care for the reptile, according to Roy Gross, chief of the Suffolk County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).

The alligator was turned over to the Suffolk SPCA and NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). The gator will be transported to a licensed wildlife sanctuary.

"Alligators do not make good pets, are a danger to the public, and are illegal to own without a permit from the NYSDEC," Gross said.

People were reminded by the SPCA to be careful of reptiles found in the wild and not to touch or approach them. Alligators possess a keen sense of hearing, allowing them to determine the source of sounds.

In the past, 22 alligators had been illegally released in one year on Long Island, endangering the public, according to the SPCA.

"If you spot a dangerous reptile, please do not try to touch or handle it," the SPCA said. "Call professionals, like the Suffolk County SPCA or NYSDEC who can handle these animals and get them to proper sanctuaries."

The SPCA said it is offering owners of exotic animals the chance to surrender them without penalty or charges for illegal possession.

Anyone who sees an abandoned reptile was asked to call the Suffolk County SPCA at 631-382-7722 or NYSDEC Police at 631-444-0250. All calls will be kept confidential.