‘Illegal’ Baby Alligator Finds New Home in Virginia

Baby alligator confiscated by Spotsylvania Animal Control - May, 2024Photo bySpotsylvania Animal Control via SSO

LURAY, Va. – Spotsylvania Animal Control, a division of the Spotsylvania Sheriff’s Office (SSO), recently helped a juvenile reptile find a safe and legal home.

According to a May 22, 2024 SSO media release, a baby alligator was recently confiscated from a Spotsylvania residence. Such creatures are not native to Virginia, and personal ownership without proper licensing is illegal throughout the Commonwealth.

Luray Zoo, a Rescue Zoo, located on US-211 in Page County, was able to take custody and care of the little guy.

According to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute: The American alligator is found in the United States from North Carolina to the Rio Grande in Texas.

Alligators are usually found in freshwater, slow-moving rivers. They also live in swamps, marshes and lakes.

American alligators live about 50 years in the wild. In captivity, their lifespan is slightly longer.

Spotsylvania Animal Control Deputy Peter O'Brien and Luray Zoo co-owner Mark KilbyPhoto bySpotsylvania Animal Control via SSO

The Luray Zoo is privately-owned and not government-funded, according to their website. It is financially supported by zoo admission fees, gift shop sales and donations.

The SSO did not disclose the previous owner’s name or the specific location where the alligator was found and confiscated.

Luray, a rural Shenandoah Valley town, is known for Luray Caverns, and its close proximity to Shenandoah National Park. It’s approximately 92 miles west of Washington, DC.

Baby alligator confiscated by Spotsylvania Animal Control - May, 2024Photo bySpotsylvania Animal Control via SSO