Overview

• Ricky Sánchez, fishing from a kayak at Magnolia Lake, first hooked and filmed the baby alligator, drawing attention to the non-native reptile.
• Local police alerted the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and the Game Commission, which initially sanctioned lethal removal.
• Reptile expert Kyle Asplundh captured the roughly 4-foot gator at night by spotting its reflective eye shine and securing it without harm.
• Bucks County Park Rangers held the gator overnight before arranging its transfer to the Jupiter Alligator & Wildlife Center in Florida.
• Officials have maintained public safety warnings around Magnolia Lake and are now reviewing state and township exotic pet ownership regulations.