Gator, Gila Monster, Boas & More Seized From Idaho Home

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A 7-foot alligator along with other exotic animals was seized from a home in Boise, Idaho this week after authorities received anonymous tips about the animals.

According to a press release, the owner of the reptiles voluntarily surrendered eight specimens from his possession that were not properly permitted. The reptiles taken from the home included a seven-foot alligator, two caiman, two snapping turtles, two rubber boas, and a Gila monster.

Idaho Department of Fish and Game spokesman, James Brower said:

“We received some tips about the gentleman and he was very agreeable when we went to his house. The reptiles had come across state lines and he wasn’t allowed to keep them in his home.”

All of the animals were smaller and easy to remove except for the alligator. Since gators aren’t native to the State of Idaho, the Idaho Fish and Game agents weren’t used to dealing with a dangerous animal of that size.

“We had several individuals there to help and consulted the state veterinarian to sedate the alligator,” Brower told East Idaho News “Reptiles, in general, metabolize things very slowly so we had to wait and see if the animal calmed down. He was never comatose or unconscious and was actually pretty lively. We then lifted him over the enclosure and moved him out.”

Although it was a cumbersome task, the team managed to safely remove all of the animals.

Since the owner fully cooperated and was willing to voluntarily surrender the animals, several written warnings were issued but the owner did not receive any citations.

For more information on where the animals were relocated, watch the video below.