Little body, sharp teeth...

Well, definitely had an interesting day today. Father Roy and I chased down and captured a little American Alligator running around the church parking lot and front lawn. I guess some parishioners had noticed it scurrying around in the bushes over the weekend and father has been keeping an eye out for it all week. I just happened to notice an alligator lying in the parking lot when I came back to the church after lunch, so Father and I had a St. Michael moment and went and slew the dragon. Well, we didn't actually slay it. Father is actually quite Franciscan in his dealings with animals.

Regardless, we marched onto the field of battle with broomsticks and rubbermaid shields held high. Okay, I'll stop with the sappy medieval references. Nevertheless, we managed to contain the 3 1/2 - 4 foot gator into a large storage bin and clamp the lid down on him without losing any significant appendages. I suppose we could have called park and wildlife services, but that just wouldn't have been any fun, and he might have gotten away by then, thus endangering little children appendages come the weekend. I'm sure the passerbyers on White Point road had a very interesting double take as they drove by the church front lawn with two men waiving poles and a rubbermaid lid and bin.

The picture above is probably a little bit smaller than it was. You have to imagine that the tail is about 1 1/2 times the size of its body also, so it was much more impressive looking. I suppose it was little compared to a full fledged crocodile or swamp alligator, but it was nonetheless a good thrill. It's been a while since I've done anything semi reckless, so the adrenaline was thoroughly enjoyed. Maybe Lori will want to go parachuting for our anniversary next week?

You'll be happy to know that Father was going to find a nice swampy area to return the little guy to so that society is no longer endangering his existence.

Anyway, peace to all, and happy dragon hunting! :)