Local Authorities Search for Escaped Giant Lizard in Webster
Authorities in Webster are currently conducting an extensive search for a large lizard that has gone missing and is believed to have been illegally kept as a pet by a local resident. The reptile, named Goose, is a five-foot-long water monitor that was first reported missing on Friday. Since then, the community has been on high alert, with officials working tirelessly to locate the animal.
On Saturday, Webster Animal Control revealed that police had used drones during the night to inspect pools and other potential hiding spots, but no sign of the semiaquatic reptile was found. After considering the amount of time that had passed since the escape and consulting with experts, officials decided to call off the search for the night. However, they remain committed to continuing their efforts in the coming days.
Water monitors are known for their ability to travel long distances, climb trees, and seek out bodies of water. While these creatures are not typically aggressive towards humans, dogs, or cats, their presence in residential areas can still cause concern among residents. Officials have emphasized that Goose is an illegal pet and urged anyone who spots the animal to contact authorities immediately.
Oliva Williams, a neighbor of the lizard’s owners, shared her account with Boston 25 News. She described how she saw the lizard burst through a second-floor window, crawl onto the roof, and leap toward the ground in an attempt to escape. Her testimony highlights the unusual nature of the incident and the challenges faced by authorities in tracking down the elusive creature.
Webster officials have partnered with a reptile specialist to aid in the search and ensure the safe capture of Goose. Water monitors are capable of growing up to 7 feet in length and are venomous, though their venom is not considered lethal to humans. Despite this, the presence of such a large and potentially dangerous animal in the neighborhood has raised concerns among locals.
Residents have also mentioned that a similar situation occurred last year when a different lizard escaped from the same home. This recurring issue has led some to feel a sense of déjà vu, as if they are experiencing the same scenario all over again. The repeated incidents have prompted calls for stricter regulations regarding the ownership of exotic pets in the area.
As the search continues, officials are encouraging the public to stay informed and report any sightings of Goose. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. For those interested in staying updated on the latest developments, the Boston 25 News app offers breaking news alerts directly to mobile devices. Residents can also follow Boston 25 News on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter for real-time updates. Additionally, viewers can watch Boston 25 News online for the most current coverage of the situation.