A small alligator was spotted in the Kiski River in Apollo, Pennsylvania, as kayakers enjoyed their afternoon. However, in a separate incident, a Florida man recently found himself in trouble after plucking five alligator hatchlings from a nearby pond and keeping them in his bathtub. Robert Lee Robinson, a 38-year-old resident of Saint Cloud, was cited for personal possession of wildlife without a permit.
The incident came to light when an anonymous caller tipped off the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission about Robinson’s actions. Wildlife officers paid a visit to Robinson’s house and were greeted by an individual sitting on the porch who called him out for the police. Robinson admitted to having alligators in his bathroom and allowed the officers to enter his home.
The officers photographed and collected the displaced reptiles, ensuring there were no other wildlife in the building. They later visited Robinson at his workplace. Robinson claimed to have caught the alligators at a nearby pond in Estates Park. As a result of his actions, he was issued a citation and is expected to appear in court at a later date.
Following the confiscation of the alligators, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission released them into Lake Tohopekaliga. It is important to note that hunting or possessing alligators or their eggs is a third-degree felony in Florida, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
This incident sheds light on the issue of individuals illegally keeping alligators as pets in Florida. According to data from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, six state residents, all from Central Florida, have faced criminal charges for this offense in the past two years.
It is crucial to respect wildlife laws and regulations to ensure the preservation of these animals and maintain a safe environment for both humans and wildlife.
