PHOTOS: 7-foot alligator relocated after being found on Sunset Beach road

SUNSET BEACH, N.C. (WECT) - A 7-foot female alligator found partly in the roadway on Lake Shore Drive was relocated to a nearby pond, Sunset Beach police said.

The department said Officer Gage spotted the alligator, which measured about 7 feet, 2.5 inches. Capt. Gray relocated it following safety procedures. The department said Gray is licensed through the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission and certified to handle and remove nuisance alligators.

According to the department, officers do not remove alligators simply because they are in residential areas. Relocation may be necessary when public safety or the animal’s well-being is at risk.

Alligators are protected under state law and should be treated with caution. Police remind residents:

• Never approach or attempt to handle an alligator.
• Keep children and pets away from the water’s edge.
• Never feed alligators, which is illegal and dangerous.
• Be aware that alligators can move quickly over short distances and react rapidly when threatened.

Anyone who sees an alligator posing an immediate risk to people or itself can call the Sunset Beach Police Department at 910-579-6297. Call 911 in an emergency.