The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is investigating a reported alligator sighting on Detroit’s Belle Isle. A local resident, Lynn Blasey, took a photo with geo-location data showing the park and reported it to the DNR last Friday, according to FOX 2 Detroit. No DNR staff have seen the animal directly.
Officials have not yet located the animal, though a photo first shared on social media has been deemed reliable. "The report is considered credible and consistent," the Michigan Department of Natural Resources stated, adding that they are acting "Out of an abundance of caution," as reported by WXYZ. The agency has warned the public not to approach wildlife and reminded visitors that releasing animals into state parks is illegal and poses risks to people, plants, and animals.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is responding to an alligator sighting at Belle Isle and addressing unverified social media claims about a boa constrictor, which officials say lack evidence. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources advises visitors not to interact with wildlife and to report unusual sightings through the "Report All Poaching" hotline at (800) 292-7800, as mentioned by Mlive.
