See the Alligator Found Swimming in a New York City Park… Yes, an Alligator!

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New York City experienced a surprisingly warm winter this year but even then, it’s not the type of climate an alligator usually thrives in. It came as quite a surprise to several New Yorkers when they realized their local park had an uninvited guest. Watch the video to get the full scoop!

In What States Do American Alligators Live?

American alligators can be found throughout 10 different states within the U.S. They prefer warm environments like Louisiana, where over two million gators call this southern state home. The following state with a high population of alligators is Florida, where 1.3 million of these reptiles reside.

Texas is home to somewhere between 400,000 and 500,000 while Georgia houses 200,000 – 250,000 gators. Additional states where alligators are found include South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, North Carolina, and Oklahoma.  

What Kind of Wildlife Live in Prospect Park Lake?

As you noticed, New York is not on the list of states where alligators are found. However, at Prospect Park Lake, there are other types of wildlife. Some birds include migratory hawks, black-crowned night herons, great blue herons, Canadian geese, and mallards.

There are a few chipmunks here and there, some largemouth bass and freshwater fish, and even some snapping turtles, wood frogs, spring peepers, and spotted salamanders. Although a wonderful place to hike, fish, and horseback ride, it’s just not a place you expect to see an alligator.

Alligator Found in Prospect Park Lake, NYC

The video clip below was shared by Eyewitness News ABC7NY. The reporter explains that a four-foot-long alligator was discovered inside Brooklyn’s Prospect Park. It was quickly relocated to the Bronx Zoo, where it was given an opportunity to get acquainted with its new surroundings.

The on-site reporter goes on to explain that the alligator has no business in the park. Not only does it present a danger to the parkgoers but also to the alligator itself. The news station shares several photos of the gator, which is quite small compared to how big a full-grown alligator can get.

After assessing the reptile, the staff at the zoo realized it was quite frail. Although New York has had a record-breaking warm winter this year, alligators are accustomed to significantly warmer environments. The video continues as the reporter interviews a local who got the news from a friend and had a hard time believing it at first.

It’s likely someone kept the reptile as a domesticated pet for some time before releasing it — an investigation was underway immediately after the gator’s rescue.