New York authorities have seized a massive alligator named Albert, weighing hundreds of kilograms, from a home in Hamburg, just south of Buffalo. The state Department of Environmental Conservation highlighted the case after discovering Albert had been cohabiting with his owner—and even sharing a pool with children—for decades.
Albert, who weighs 340kg, suffers from blindness and spinal issues. His owner’s permit to keep him expired in 2021, sparking concern and leading to the intervention. The department stressed the seriousness of the public safety risk posed by such an arrangement.
Tony Cavallaro, Albert’s owner since the 1990s, insists the alligator poses no danger and is part of his family. He plans to contest the seizure, citing difficulties in renewing his license due to changes in regulation and unresponsive authorities. “Albert was like his kid,” Cavallaro told The Guardian, committing to legal action to regain custody.
Despite Cavallaro’s defense of his care, authorities have moved Albert to a licensed caretaker. They aim to find a permanent solution where he can receive the necessary care, as reported by Sky News. This move underscores the complex balance between private ownership of exotic animals and public safety, alongside the animals’ welfare.
