The Huntsville Police Department (HPD) shared a rare encounter on Wednesday night after an alligator was spotted in a neighborhood.
HPD officers came across the alligator as it crossed Haysland Road.
"After a brief detour through the neighborhood, it made its way back to the preserve on its own," HPD added.
While many residents were surprised to see an alligator near Redstone Arsenal, there is evidence that alligators have been present in the area since the late 1800s, according to biologists with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division.
Officials warned residents in the area to never approach, handle or feed wildlife and to contact authorities if an animal appears injured or poses a safety concern.
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