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Orlando resident caught keeping wild alligator in their garage: FWC

By FOX 35 News Staff
Updated  October 25, 2023 10:52am EDT
FOX 35 Orlando

Woman 'borrowed' alligator for birthday pics

A woman allegedly "borrowed" an alligator from her previous job for a birthday photoshoot and kept it inside a hotel bathtub, according the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Most Floridians have a fascination with alligators, but it's safe to say one Orange County resident took an interest in the unique reptile too far.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), a resident in Orlando was found illegally possessing an American alligator in their garage.

An FWC officer responded to the home after learning the gator was likely being housed at the residence. 

Florida woman killed by 14-foot alligator

The daughter of a 41-year-old Florida woman found dead inside a nearly 14-foot alligator’s mouth reflects on her mother’s life.

The officer spoke with the resident who admitted to taking the alligator from the wild.  

Officials said no one at the home had a permit to keep the gator. FWC said the violations were addressed accordingly. 

According to FWC's website, one must have a Class II Personal pet license to lawfully possess an American alligator for personal use. 

Sandhill cranes helping alligator cross road

A video posted to social media appears to show two Sandhill cranes helping a young alligator cross a Florida road. Shannon Duke, who took a video of the incredible sighting, said it happened in Pine Island in Hernando County earlier this month.

To qualify for a permit one must be at least 18 years old and must not be convicted of certain wildlife-related violations. They also must demonstrate a year and 1,000 hours of substantial practical experience in the handling, husbandry and care of alligators or other crocodilian species.