The owner of the captured Beechview alligator said he is fighting to get his animals back.
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Mark McGowen said police and animal control raided his home, which contained 40 animals, taking more than 30 of them. McGowen said the officers told him the seized animals did not have adequate enclosures.
McGowen was seen cleaning the alligator's enclosure on the day the reptile escaped.
"He pushed over the gate somehow. It was raining out, he must've smelled the rain because they have senses," he said.
McGowen said his animals are around children all the time, and that he rescued them and nursed them back to health. He said they are an educational opportunity for kids.
It's not clear if McGowen will face any charges.
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