Last month, an illegally owned carnivorous lizard made local headlines in Webster, Massachusetts. Authorities reveal they have finally caught him after a weeks-long chase and what they plan to do next.
Webster Animal Control first revealed the unusual escapee on social media on July 18. They explained that a water monitor escaped from its home in Webster, advising residents to stay away for their safety. A brief search ensued, although authorities stopped on July 18 during the evening owing to how long the lizard was free. At the time, Boston 25 revealed the lizard was 5 feet long. The outlet also explained that the water monitor was lovingly known as Goose.
Rainforest Reptile Shows (RRS) posted an update on Facebook on Sunday titled, “Goose is no longer on the loose!” Webster Animal Control reposted the announcement, confirming authorities had safely secured the elusive lizard. He managed to evade all capture attempts for over three weeks.
RSS revealed in their post, “Goose will now begin a new chapter at RRS Oasis, our nonprofit animal sanctuary, where he will receive expert care and a specially designed permanent habitat.”
Rainforest Reptile Shows Asks For Donations Toward The Lizard Enclosure
The RSS post explains that they are fundraising to construct Goose’s new habitat. Their website also reveals other animals they have adopted, including a Gaboon viper and Stella, the Burmese python. RSS also thanked Webster Animal Control and Massachusetts Environmental Police for ensuring that Goose was captured safely. “We are thrilled to have been a part of a such a great group to give Goose a chance on thriving,” they add.
In a more recent post, RSS explained that they had given Goose a full health checkup, including an ultrasound. They also posted a video of the lizard’s time at the vet. “He spent time with Dr. Brent Couts and, as always, was a total gentleman.”
The organization claims that Goose’s stint at the vets cost $1,000, but they also received that amount already in donations. RSS explained that they expect Goose’s new enclosure to cost at least $3,000 to construct and thanked everyone who contributed. Their post concludes, “Every little bit makes a BIG difference. Thank you for being part of Goose’s journey and helping us create a safe, enriching forever home!”