Wildlife officials in Pennsylvania are warning anglers and others enjoying the outdoors to be vigilant after a fisherman reported seeing a possible alligator in the Allegheny River near Pittsburgh. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) believes the reported sighting near Sharpsburg is credible, as the angler is familiar with local wildlife and conditions.
While alligators are not native to Pennsylvania and cannot survive the state’s winters, the PFBC believes the animal was likely an escaped or released pet. They emphasize that releasing non-native species into the wild is illegal and can harm native ecosystems and wildlife. Alligators pose a significant threat to native species and can also be dangerous to people.
The PFBC is urging anyone who sees the alligator to avoid approaching it and to report the sighting to the agency immediately. They advise keeping a safe distance and refraining from attempting to capture or harm the animal. The public’s cooperation is crucial in helping officials locate and safely remove the alligator from the river, ensuring both public safety and the protection of the local environment.
find the original article here: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/officials-issue-warning-angler-spots-223000801.html