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6-Foot Alligator Turns Up Outside Michigan Church

JACKSON (WWJ/AP) - Authorities say a 6-foot-long alligator was caught after being spotted roaming the property of a southern Michigan church.

The Jackson Citizen Patriot reports officers from the Blackman-Leoni Township public safety department near Jackson caught the alligator on Monday. Police slipped a noose around its head before placing duct tape around the alligator's mouth.

A passing motorist called police to Pathway Community Church after spotting the reptile outside.

Police say the alligator was in good health and likely was recently released. With colder weather approaching it might not have survived outdoors.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources was consulted before arrangements were made to transport the alligator to a sanctuary in Athens.

TM and © Copyright 2011 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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