US Zoo Removes 70 Coins from Alligator, Urges Visitors to Avoid Tossing Money in Water

A significant incident unfolded concerning one of the beloved residents at the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. Thibodaux, a 36-year-old alligator, underwent an urgent medical procedure last week to remove an unexpected assortment from its stomach – a total of 70 coins. During a routine examination, zoo officials discovered the metallic stash. Fortunately, all the coins were safely extracted, sparing Thibodaux from potential harm. Veterinarian Dr. Christina Ploog attributed the ingestion of coins to likely visitor behavior, emphasizing the dangers and discouraging such actions.

“Thibodaux was safely anesthetized and intubated to facilitate the procedure,” explained Dr. Christina Ploog, an associate veterinarian at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, who led the operation.

“A protective plastic pipe was inserted to safeguard his mouth and allow the passage of tools, including a camera used to guide the retrieval of the objects.”

All coins were successfully removed, confirmed by a follow-up X-ray. Thibodaux recuperated well and has returned to his habitat.

“While procedures like Thibodaux’s are not frequent, they exemplify the dedication of our animal care and health teams in ensuring excellent welfare for our animals,” remarked Taylor Yaw, the zoo’s veterinarian and director of animal health.

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The zoo issued a reminder to visitors, urging them not to toss coins into any water bodies within the premises. Instead, loose change can be exchanged for souvenir coins at various machines around the zoo or contributed to the coin wishing well located in the Desert Dome atrium.