An Alligator Was Just Found… Swimming In A Wisconsin Lake

Recently, an alligator was discovered swimming in a lake in the state of Wisconsin. On Wednesday, the Menasha, Wisconsin-based J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue shared information on their Facebook page about an American alligator measuring between 18 and 24 inches long, according to Fox News.

According to the post on Facebook, the baby alligator was discovered in Long Lake, which is located in both Fond du Lac County and Sheboygan County. On the other hand, American alligators are seldom discovered in the state of Wisconsin.

According to the website of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, they may be found living in and near freshwater rivers, swamps, marshes, and lakes from North Carolina to Texas’ Rio Grande. They also inhabit the surrounding areas of these habitats.

On their Facebook page, J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue noted that the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources was responsible for bringing the alligator to the facility for the time being. The animal rescue organization said that it will only hold the alligator for a single week before releasing it into a refuge.

According to John Moyles, director of J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue, the alligator is doing well, eating meals of alligator pellets, insects, and even a frozen mouse.

According to Moyles, a probable owner of the alligator has come forward as well. “The individual said that they had [the alligator] in an outdoor enclosure and that his daughter accidentally left the cage open, which allowed the alligator to escape,” Moyles said. 

Moyles added that after discussing the available choices with the prospective new owner, the decision was reached to transport the alligator to a refuge that was recognized by the relevant authorities. “We have been working with Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary in Athens, Michigan, and have a plan in place to send the alligator there on Monday,” he said.