(Photo courtesy of the NYC Parks Department. Click to enlarge)

Yes, this is the same lake in Prospect Park in Brooklyn where I’ve taken many photos including the most recent one of a bald eagle. This four foot alligator was spotted by an early morning photographer Sunday who alerted park authorities. And, no, if you’re not familiar with New York City geography, alligators are not native to New York City. The alligator, who was described as “lethargic,” was taken to the Bronx Zoo. Some New Yorkers thought the new visitor might be part of the mayor’s new anti-rat initiative…