'Beware of gator' sign tips off police about illegal alligator at home

GALVESTON, Texas -- A Galveston animal services worker came across an unusual sight earlier this week while trying to catch a stray.

He noticed a sign on a back yard fence in the 2200 block of 47th Street that read 'Beware of Alligator.'

The officer said he tried to get hold of the homeowner, but no one was home. He went to look in the back yard and noticed an approximately 4-foot Caiman alligator in the backyard.

The gator appeared to be in good health. The homeowner had apparently built it a suitable habitat, complete with a small heated pool and a heated shelter area.

The officer apprehended the alligator and removed it from the yard. It was taken to the Galveston Island Humane Society's Animal Shelter; however, the shelter had no way to house an alligator. A plea for help was sent out for anyone that could assist.

Within an hour and a half of the request, Galveston PD Animal Control was contacted by Moody Gardens, who told the department that space had already been made to temporarily house the alligator.

The animal's owner is also expected to be cited for the offense once contact is made.

Authorities say keeping alligators, as well as other potentially dangerous animals, is prohibited within the city of Galveston by city ordinance.