Watch CBS News

Abandoned Crocodile Captured At Strip Mall Near Sacramento

ROSEVILLE, Placer County (CBS / AP) -- This is one crocodile that didn't want to become a handbag.

Police in the Sacramento suburb of Roseville captured a 4-foot-long crocodile Wednesday near a T.J. Maxx store in a strip mall.

Police spokeswoman Dee Dee Gunther says the animal apparently escaped from a box left in front of a reptile shop called The Serpentarium with a sign saying "Nile Crocodile. Contact Rescue."

Authorities say the crocodile is feisty but had duct tape wrapped around its jaws.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife Lt. Patrick Foy said the agency is "reasonably sure" the animal is indeed a Nile crocodile. It's looking for a zoo or other facility to take it.

Foy says the crocodile appears to have broken teeth, perhaps from biting wire cages.

California bans ownership of crocodiles.

© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

 

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.