The alligator spotted on Belle Isle has left Detroit, but it is not far down the road.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources made contact with the individual who captured the alligator and confirmed it was taken to the Westland at the Great Lakes Serpentarium, where it can be properly cared for, according to a DNR statement sent to the Free Press on Thursday, Oct. 2.
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The alligator arrived at the serpentarium on Oct. 1, according to Facebook posts from the serpentarium, which matched markings from photos of the alligator to confirm it is the same animal.
The alligator catch comes less than a week after the gator was spotted at the state park in Detroit. Park staff had not seen the alligator as of Sept. 29 but reviewed a civilian photograph and used geolocation data to determine that the report is “credible and consistent.”
The DNR reminds visitors not to approach wild animals, as wildlife can be dangerous and unpredictable, according to the statement.
Releasing wild animals or pets into state parks is prohibited and harmful to the animal, ecosystem and public safety, according to the DNR.
“Non-native species can disrupt local habitats and pose risks to visitors and wildlife alike,” according to the DNR.
Liam Rappleye contributed. Contact Natalie Davies at ndavies@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Belle Isle alligator has been caught, taken to Westland serpentarium