Florida Man Tries To Trade Alligator For Beer

A Florida man has failed in his bid to trade a 4ft alligator for a 12-pack of beer.

State wildlife officials cited Fernando Aguilera for possessing, illegally taking and attempting to sell the reptile at a Miami convenience store.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission spokesman Jorge Pino told WTVJ-TV that Aguilera trapped the reptile at a nearby park.

The store clerk called authorities after Aguilera walked in carrying the alligator and proposed the bizarre trade.

"I think that anybody who would conceive this scheme is not thinking properly,'' Mr Pino said.

Each of the three misdemeanour charges Aguilera faces carry a penalty of up to six months in jail and a fine up to $500, Mr Pino said.

The alligator was unharmed and was released back into the wild.

Alligators are no longer endangered but it is illegal to take them in Florida except during a closely regulated annual hunt.

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