A large gator swam up on one of our most popular beaches this week. The beast was shot and killed to protect the public - but a major controversy is brewing as animal rights groups berate the DNR's actions.
What do you think?Beach goers outraged after 10-foot gator shot, killed on beach - WCIV-TV | ABC News 4 - Charleston News, Sports, Weather
Right or Wrong?
It was the right thing to do. Big Gators can be and are dangerous.
Most likely the decision was made to euthanize the gator because of prolonged exposure to saltwater.
They are often blinded by complications to this and deemed "a public hazard" not to mention unfit for relocation and/or rehabilitation.
These are primarily FRESHwater animals but can live for a time in brackish water, but not full salinity ocean water.
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But after reading the article (further review ;-) it seems the guy who actually shot the gator may have acted hastily.
Certainly unwisely to shoot it with such a crowd nearby as to 'traumatize' kids and tourists.
#r, you are spot on. Unless the gator was in pain, or an immediate threat, it may have been better to manage the situation differently. Apparently the SC DNR felt the same way, and has severed ties with the contractor who shot the animal.
It should be noted that the contractor was alone, and given the sparse coverage of DNR agents in our state, had no close back up.
I still feel bummed for the gator. Given his size, he had probably lived on the island longer than most of the "locals".