WINNIPEG SUN (Manitoba) 19 June 05 Gator reported missing - Snake distracted owner
Medford, Oregon (AP): It's not often that the Medford police get a call about an alligator on the loose. But that call came Thursday after owner Paul Sabin was distracted caring for another sick pet, a 12-foot Burmese python.
Sabin says the small alligator, named Usal, generally will run if confronted by a human. But he warns not to get close to the 3 1/2-foot-long reptile if he is spotted.
"Reach for him, and he'll probably try to bite," Sabin said.
Authorities are warning Medford residents to call them if Usal shows up on their block.
"We've had snakes and lizards loose before, but never a gator," said Lt. Mike Moran, who was surprised to find there is no state law on alligator ownership.
The alligator prefers dining on frogs, fish and turtles, but will snack on a mammal if he's hungry enough, Sabin said.
Sabin, who adopts reptiles that are not properly cared for, said he never had an alligator until Usal arrived about three months ago.
Gator reported missing - Snake distracted owner