Updated

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, N.J. -- A 2-foot alligator -- thought to be an escaped pet -- was found and captured as residents of Gloucester Township, N.J., cleaned up Sunday in the wake of Irene.

A resident of an apartment complex spotted the reptile about 1:45 p.m. local time, lurking under a bridge by a lake.

By the time police arrived, the resident had caught it and taped its mouth shut to keep it from biting anyone, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported.

"The area was searched for additional alligators, with negative results," Gloucester Township Police Lt. Jason Gittens said.

Animal Control officers, who will make arrangements to have the alligator relocated, said it was probably a pet that either escaped or was let go.