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Mystery Crocodile Found in Michigan: How Did It Get Here?

9/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On September 23, 2025, a three-foot-long South American crocodile was found in Hampton Township, Michigan, initially misidentified as an alligator.
Authorities captured it under an apple tree and transferred the reptile to Birch Run Zoo for care.
Investigators are unsure how the crocodile arrived in Michigan or who previously owned it; Hampton Township prohibits keeping non-domestic reptiles.

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Story summary

On September 23, 2025, a three-foot-long South American crocodile was found in Hampton Township, Michigan, initially misidentified as an alligator.
Authorities captured it under an apple tree and transferred the reptile to Birch Run Zoo for care.
Investigators are unsure how the crocodile arrived in Michigan or who previously owned it; Hampton Township prohibits keeping non-domestic reptiles.