A few days ago, the Department of Animal Services in North Hollywood received a call about an exotic animal illegally kept in a NoHo home. Ziggy, as the animal was named, caused quite a surprise and a scare for the agency’s officials, who had to confront a 5 foot-6 alligator.

The pet was raised by his owner for the past 5 years, who had no problem surrendering it to the officers. After a careful physical, Ziggy will be sent to a local herpetology society member who has the state’s demanded permits for possession, in order for it to have a safe and appropriate environment.

"The alligator appears to be in good health, thankfully," said Kathy Davis, assistant general manager for L.A. animal services.

The reason why the authorities rushed with the procedures is because alligators are one of the restricted species in California and when acquiring one, people must present their State Permit for possession.

Alligators are considered extremely dangerous even for people with the proper animal training, let alone everyday citizens. The average male can even reach 13 feet long and this is precisely why the authorities ask the public to act on the matter and notify as soon as possible about any such situation. Thus it is a sure thing that people and animals will remain safe and unharmed.   

The last incident involving an alligator happened last year, when Reggie, a 6 ½ foot-long alligator, was captured in a Harbor City lake in Los Angeles and sent directly to the city’s zoo.