US Zoo Extracts 70 Coins From Alligator, Urges Visitors To Avoid Tossing Money in Water

After a successful removal of all the coins, a follow-up X-ray confirmed the procedure's success.

A critical incident occurred concerning a cherished inhabitant of the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Thibodaux, a 36-year-old alligator, underwent an urgent medical procedure late last week to extract an unexpected assortment from its stomach-a total of 70 coins. Zoo officials discovered the metallic haul during a routine examination. Thankfully, all the coins were successfully removed, sparing Thibodaux from potential harm. Veterinarian Dr Christina Ploog believes the coins were likely tossed into the alligator's habitat by visitors, a dangerous and unwelcome practice.

"With the help of his training, Thibodaux was anesthetized and intubated to allow us to safely manage him during the procedure," said Christina Ploog, DVM, an associate veterinarian at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, who led the procedure.

"A plastic pipe was placed to protect his mouth and safely pass the tools used to access the coins, such as a camera that helped us guide the retrieval of these objects."