Caiman Found In Philly Park Euthanized After Rehoming Efforts Fail

PHILADELPHIA — A three-foot long reptile found in a Philadelphia park earlier this month had to be euthanized, authorities said.

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission confirmed to Patch that the caiman found abandoned in Franklin Delano Roosevelt Park on March 5 was put down.

Spokesman Mike Parker said the decision was made after efforts to rehome the reptile were unsuccessful.

The caiman was found in the park and turned over to ACCT Philly.

According to the group, caimans grow up to 5 feet long and can live up to 40 years.

They require the space of a small studio apartment that features water and land, with a minimum of 70 degrees.

"These animals don’t know how to adapt to the PA life," ACCT said. "They will have a hard time catching prey in less than ideal settings so easier prey (small dogs, for example) will become more appealing."

ACCT encouraged anyone who can no longer keep animals, including caimans and other animals, to contact them instead of releasing them into the wild.

Under Pennsylvania Code, it is unlawful to introduce non-native species into the natural environment of Pennsylvania.

"As a matter of public safety, and to protect our native fish, reptile, and amphibian species, for which the PFBC is responsible, we must take quick measures to ensure that non-native, invasive, exotic, and potentially dangerous animals are not introduced into the public waters and lands of the Commonwealth," Parker said.

Penalties can include fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the violation.

"Owners who purchase an exotic fish, reptile, or amphibian as a pet in Pennsylvania are, in most cases, allowed to do so, unless prohibited by local ordinances," Parkre said.