A two-foot crocodile was found in a Long Island nature preserve on Thursday, prompting concern from local animal welfare groups and officials. The reptile was discovered along a walking trail at the Holtsville Wildlife & Ecology Center, a site that had been closed earlier this year. Employees still working on the property encountered the animal, safely contained it in a box, and contacted Strong Island Animal Rescue League, a nonprofit organization based in Port Jefferson.

The rescue league’s president, Frank Floridia, described the presence of the crocodile as alarming. He emphasized that keeping crocodiles as pets is illegal in New York State and highlighted the potential danger the animal posed to the public. According to Floridia, crocodile bites can cause serious injury, including torn ligaments.

In response to the incident, Strong Island Animal Rescue League is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and capture of the individual responsible for abandoning the crocodile at the preserve. Authorities have not yet identified a suspect or provided additional details about how the crocodile ended up at the facility.

The Holtsville Wildlife & Ecology Center has been closed to the public since earlier this year, but some town employees continue to maintain the grounds. The discovery has raised questions about enforcement of wildlife regulations and the risks associated with illegally owning exotic animals.

Officials urge the public to report any sightings of dangerous or prohibited wildlife to local authorities to ensure public safety and animal welfare. The investigation into the crocodile’s origin and the circumstances surrounding its abandonment is ongoing.