Mystery Surrounds Alligator Discovery at Martha’s Vineyard Nature Reserve
Martha’s Vineyard residents are buzzing with speculation following the discovery of a nearly five-foot alligator carcass at Sepiessa Point Reservation. The creature was found by local resident Dave Kelliher while walking his dog this past Saturday. Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) are investigating, having been alerted by West Tisbury Animal Control after they retrieved the carcass.
Kelliher noted that the alligator’s limbs appeared flexible and it lacked a smell, suggesting it had died recently. Intriguingly, much of the alligator’s skin was missing, leading to various theories among locals about its origin. While some suspect scavenging by local wildlife, others believe the skin may have been removed for tanning or sale. Kelliher speculated that the alligator may have once been a pet that was abandoned as it grew too large.
Matt Pelikan, a community naturalist, commented on the improbability of an alligator reaching the island on its own, stating that irresponsible pet ownership is a more plausible explanation. It’s important to note that owning alligators and other crocodilians is illegal in Massachusetts.
The MEP is urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
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