Lizard still at large: Webster water monitor crosses state lines into Conn.

After a pet water monitor that escaped from a Webster home last week was discovered close to a nearby pond, residents of a Connecticut hamlet are on high alert.

After Goose, the water monitor, vanished from his Blueberry Lane residence, where he was kept as an unauthorized pet, a search was initiated on July 18.

A few days later, investigators canceled the search, stating that because the exotic lizard is known to travel swiftly, it was unlikely they would find it.

Officials in Thompson, Connecticut, however, reported a sighting of the 5-foot-long reptile on Friday. Residents were urged to exercise caution because water monitors are known to bite people.

According to a Facebook post made by Thompson town officials on Friday, Goose the water monitor was seen in the Little Pond area near Wilsonville Road and Thompson Road. These lizards are known to move around, scale trees, and look for water. They have no history of attacking people, dogs, or cats. It’s critical to contact animal control as soon as you discover an unlawfully owned animal so that we can take it into custody. We are collaborating with a reptilian specialist. Please call the police or animal control right away if you see this lizard. Please stay away from the animal and let the experts handle it.

Since he vanished, Goose has garnered media attention around the state, inspiring amused citizens to make jokes and memes.

In response to the town’s Facebook post, one commenter joked that since he violated state lines, a federal inquiry had been launched.

Another commenter remarked, Godzilla is coming our way.

Water monitors are native to Southeast Asia and can reach lengths of 6 to 8 feet and weights of up to 100 pounds. They may behave violently and bite people to spread dangerous bacteria when they feel threatened. The reptiles’ powerful tails and sharp claws can potentially injure people.

Water monitors are not poisonous, but their bites can cause bacterial illnesses. The majority of bites occur when someone tries to handle or catch them.

According to animal control officials, Goose will probably look for warmth in sunny spots and warm surfaces like patios and decks as the nights grow cooler.

Contact Connecticut State Police at 860-779-4900 or Webster Animal Control at 508-943-1212 if you see the water monitor.