Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe July 20 (UPI) -- Wildlife officials in Virginia said they captured an unusual visitor to the waters in the southwest part of the state -- an alligator. The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries said the animal, an American alligator, was first spotted in the Gate City area on Thursday and a search was launched to locate the non-native reptile. Advertisement The approximately 3-foot gator was captured by officials around midday Friday. Officials said the alligator is believed to be a pet that escaped or was abandoned by its owner. Alligators are legal to keep as pets in Virginia, but failing to report an escape can lead to misdemeanor charges. Read More Police officer uses yield sign to escort alligator back to pond Mystery alligator removed from backyard pond in Michigan Alligator takes on shark in South Carolina waters