Michigan DNR investigating credible alligator sighting at Belle Isle

An alligator has been spotted on Belle Isle, confirmed by Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources. CTV Windsor’s Travis Fortnum has more.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says a reported alligator sighting at Belle Isle is being taken seriously and officials consider the report ‘credible and consistent.’

The island park sits just across the Detroit River from Windsor and is a popular destination for day trips from this side of the border.

Hamtramck resident Lynn Blasey told Detroit’s WXYZ she was out paddleboarding Sunday when she spotted the reptile sunning itself along the shore.

She snapped a couple of photos and shared them online, where they quickly spread.

“I did a triple quadruple take,” Blasey recounted.

Blasey also reported the sighting to the DNR.

“Belle Isle Park staff responded last Friday to a report of a possible alligator sighting,” spokesperson Ed Golder said in a statement sent to CTV News.

“While no visual confirmation has been made by Department of Natural Resources (DNR) personnel, a photo with geo-location data was obtained. The report is considered credible and consistent.”

Officials said they are working to assess the area and “determine appropriate next steps.”

The DNR is urging the public not to approach wildlife of any kind at the park.

“Though the reported animal appears small, all wildlife can be dangerous and unpredictable. If you observe unusual wildlife activity, please report it immediately to the Report All Poaching hotline at [phone],” the statement continued.

The agency also addressed rumours circulating on social media about a boa constrictor at Belle Isle, saying there’s no evidence to support that claim and that “no such report has been received or verified by park staff or DNR personnel.”

As for the alligator, it remains unclear how it may have ended up at Belle Isle.

The DNR cautioned that releasing animals into state parks is prohibited and poses risks to the environment and public safety.

The agency said it appreciates the public’s vigilance and will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.