Gatorland, a beloved wildlife park in Orlando, Florida, has a new member – an alligator rescued from the Miami-Dade mall. This alligator, however, is a special case. It is missing the top half of its jaw due to a previous encounter with a predator.
The alligator, referred to affectionately as Giosue, was first found at the mall’s perimeter in July. There was no doubt that the alligator was in desperate need of medical attention. It had lost more than half of its jaw, leaving it unable to eat or defend itself. Fortunately, the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue team was able to get Giosue to a licensed alligator trapper, who safely brought him to Everglades Outpost Wildlife Rescue Center.
At the Everglades Outpost, Giosue was provided with food, medical care, and a safe home. As with any other alligator, regrowth of the missing portion of the jaw was not likely. In recognition of this, Giosue was equipped with a prosthetic jaw, which was provided by the University Of Florida Institute Of Food And Agricultural Sciences.
With its new jaw, Giosue was able to feed on its own. After several months at the Everglades Outpost Wildlife Rescue Center, Giosue was ready for a new home. Fortunately, Gatorland was more than happy to welcome him in.
Giosue is doing well at his new home and is using his artificial jaw to fend for himself and eat his favorite snacks. The good news is that Giosue can now lead a much happier life than before and be part of the Gatorland family, ensuring that he will never lack for food or friends!
It’s always heartwarming to hear stories of rescue animals, especially those like Giosue, who were in desperate need of help. We are thankful for all the dedicated people who made Giosue’s rescue and relocation possible. We look forward to Giosue’s new life at Gatorland and wish him all the best.
