A Douglas resident captured this photograph of the missing water monitor.
After two weeks on the run, the elusive water monitor Goose is in custody.
About 3:45 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 2, Webster police posted on social media: “Goose has been captured! More to follow.”
The 5-foot reptile, the pet of a Webster resident, was reported missing July 18, a day after he was last seen by his owner. The initial search came up empty, although the disappearance became the talk of the town and the subject of social media humor. There have been countless doctored photos of Goose at local restaurants and landmarks. A T-shirt with the words “Goose is on the loose” is a popular item.
The Webster animal control officer has said locating Goose would be difficult, with it likely in a tree or body of water. It was unlikely to survive the winter.
There was a sighting in Thompson, Connecticut, and, on Wednesday, July 30, in Douglas. A resident took a photograph of the lizard, which was confirmed to be Goose by the Massachusetts Environmental Police.
The two-week search for Goose was aided by workers from Rainforest Reptile Shows, a rescue and education organization based in Beverly. In a social media post Saturday evening, the organization said Goose would be staying at its sanctuary.
“Goose will now begin a new chapter at RRS Oasis, our nonprofit animal sanctuary, where he will receive expert care and a specially designed permanent habitat,” Rainforest Reptile wrote.
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: In custody: Webster PD says 5-foot water monitor has been captured
