Zoo officials to offer alligator a safe haven
and to speak to the importance of not releasing exotic animals into the wild eco-system
The American alligator internationally known as Reggie will be introduced to his new habitat at the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens by Los Angeles City Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, City Councilman Tom LaBonge, City Councilwoman Janice Hahn, and Zoo Director John Lewis on Thursday, August 9, 2007, at 11:00 a.m. "We are proud to offer the alligator a safe haven," said John Lewis, Zoo Director, "and even happier to have this opportunity to speak to the importance of not releasing exotic animals into the wild eco-system."
WHAT: Reggie's Public Debut at the L.A. Zoo
WHO: City of Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa
City of Los Angeles Councilman Tom LaBonge, District 4
City of Los Angeles Councilwoman Janice Hahn, District 15
Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens Director John Lewis
WHEN: Press Event at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, August 9, 2007
Media check-in at table near Front Entrance @ 10:45 a.m.
WHERE: Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens,
Front Entrance Complex
WHY: To give visitors a glimpse of this elusive animal and to educate the public on the importance of not releasing exotic animals into the wild eco-systems.
On May 24, 2007, the American alligator was apprehended from Lake Machado in Harbor City, California and placed into quarantine at the Gottlieb Animal Health and Conservation Center at the Los Angeles Zoo. Chief Veterinarian Dr. Curtis Eng and staff conducted a complete physical examination to assess the state of the alligator's health. An examination verified the reptile was a male American alligator weighing currently 114 pounds and 7½ feet long. Subsequent blood tests for diseases endemic to alligators confirmed that the animal's health was excellent. While in quarantine Reggie was fitted with a microchip to assist with future identification purposes. The alligator ate his first meal on Friday, June 29th which consisted of three quails and since has eaten once a week three pounds of various raw meats including quail, fish, chicken and rats.
Alligators are found only in two countries; the United States and China. The American alligator inhabits wetlands throughout the southeastern United States. They have a large, slightly rounded body, with thick limbs, a broad head, and a very powerful tail. Males can weigh between 500 and 1000 pounds and grow up to 11 feet in length. In 1967, the alligator was listed as an endangered species; however, combined efforts by federal and state wildlife
agencies saved these unique animals. Today, although no longer endangered, the American alligator's greatest threat is humans along with habitat destruction and water pollution.
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is located in Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 2 to 12. The Zoo is open from 10am to 6pm daily. For general information, call 323/ 644-4200.
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