There is controversy in Ponchatoula regarding Hardhide.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) said they received a complaint in early December about the health of the alligator on display in the city of Ponchatoula.
Upon inspection, it was noted that the alligator did have an injury. And it was determined that the alligator display was not suitable for winter months.
When an LDWF biologist discussed the issue with the display owner, LDWF was informed that the alligator was actually owned by Mike Kliebert. The display owner agreed the alligator should be removed until warmer weather allowed it to be returned.
LDWF contacted Mr. Kliebert and informed him that the alligator could not remain in the display pen but it could be moved to a more suitable pond at his family’s alligator farm. The ponds on their farm are deeper earthen ponds that allow the animals to burrow in the mud during winter months, similar to the way they do in the wild.
LDWF informed Mr. Kliebert that before he moved the alligator and released it on his farm, that he was required to have it checked by a licensed veterinarian to ensure that it was healthy. Mr. Kliebert was also informed that if the animal was not checked in a timely manner, LDWF would be forced to remove the animal. Furthermore, Mr. Kliebert was informed that if LDWF removed the animal it was possible that it would be euthanized, depending on its health.
LDWF said they will continue working with Mr. Kliebert to come into compliance for the safety of the animal.
