{Wes note: There are a series of photos of the caiman posted at the URL. And while I've got you, with the indulgeance of the forum, I'll continue to post press items on the main Croc forum, vice the sub-folders.}
ABC 13 (Toledo, Ohio) 19 January 05 Exotic Alligator Confiscated from Home
Animal control officers are used to handling dogs, cats, maybe even the occasional rabbit. In Monroe County Officers had to wrangle an alligator out of a house.
Monroe Police spotted the exotic alligator like animal while serving a search warrant at a house. Officers called animal control to confiscate the three and a half foot caiman because exotic animals are outlawed in Monroe County. Although a caiman is considered an exotic animal, it's not necessary illegal in Monroe County. With the proper approval process the animal would probably be at home with his owner right now. Exotics are considered animals that are not domesticated to the state of Michigan. Monroe County's Animal Control Division has a folder full of exotic animals handled over the years. Residents have owned mountain lions and beyond. Officers say the mini alligator probably will not return to its owner. They say it will most likely find a home with a rescue agency.
The city of Toledo also outlaws exotic animals, such as caimans, as well as barnyard animals within the city limits. Exceptions are made for schools, veterinary hospitals and of course the Toledo Zoo.
Exotic Alligator Confiscated from Home
