“Jaxson” was a family pet, but Los Angeles Animal Services said she could still be dangerous. The gator was moved with the help of the L.A. Zoo on Wednesday.
The alligator, a 37-year-old female named Jaxson, had lived in the Van Nuys backyard for 36 years.
Family of her owner said the gator had become a beloved pet.
But owning wildlife without a permit is illegal, and officials with Los Angeles Animal Services told ABC 7 that large reptiles can be dangerous. Authorities removed Jaxson with help from the Los Angeles Zoo on Wednesday after receiving a tip and obtaining a search warrant to enter the property.
ABC 7 / Via abc7.com
Jaxson's owner disputed that the alligator was a danger.
When officials entered the backyard, they found two dead cats near the alligator, the Associated Press reported. Because of the dead cats, authorities are asking neighbors to report any lost small pets over the years.
The alligator owner said she fed stray cats, but she never fed cats to her reptile. In fact, Jaxson got along with the cats and had only ever eaten chicken and hot dogs.
ABC 7 / Via abc7.com
