The Mystery of Alligators In Rock Creek Park

Two full-sized alligators were found on the bank of the river in Rock Creek Park in 1916. But how on Earth did they get there?

It was a zookeeper who found the first one, while on a stroll in the park. Thinking it must have escaped from the zoo, he went back to check, but no animals were missing.

The zoo organized a hunting party for the alligator, managing to capture and deposit her at the zoo, where the Washington Post reported she was “getting along swimmingly.”

Satisfied that the danger had passed, the zookeeper went back out to investigate how she got there. But when he got to the bank, there was another alligator. Holy moly, he couldn’t believe it!

Another hunting party was organized, but the mate escaped into the water. A week later, it was shot and killed by a local military sergeant.

The mystery of how these creatures got into the park is confounding. The most common speculation is that they were private pets who escaped. But others think they were the property of a nearby prep school. A senior prank, perhaps?

Rest assured, Rock Creek Park has not seen an alligator since. So, your dogs and kids should be safe. But maybe keep your eyes peeled.

Oh, and also keep your eyes peeled for this other, much more likely, reptile invading your home.