Man finds trapped alligator while mowing grass - WNEM TV 5

A west Michigan man says he was mowing his lawn when he found an alligator trapped in the window well of his basement.

But Terry Doolittle of Mattawan says authorities were skeptical when he reported the discovery because his last name is the same as a fictional children's book character who spoke to animals.

He tells MLive.com that authorities wary of a "Dr. Doolittle" prank at first didn't believe him.

Doolittle says he was mowing alongside of his house when he "saw a tail move."

An animal rescue employee who owns six other alligators eventually helped dislodge the creature, and took it home until someone claims it.

Authorities believe the alligator was a family pet.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Van Buren County Sheriff's Office.

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