The alligator, thought to be about 4-5 years old because of its size, was found crossing U.S. Hwy. 64 about a mile east of Asheboro and later picked up by Animal Control and local sheriff's deputies.

Last weekend's three-day total of 32,732 visitors shattered the previous Memorial weekend record of 25,806 set in May 2005. Zoo officials believe media coverage of the new Watani Grasslands Reserve, along with record gasoline prices and near perfect weather, combined

Kids are encouraged to bring their teddy bears to the zoo and enjoy "beary" fun activities. Youngsters can bring their teddy bears (or other favorite stuffed cuddly creatures) to a Teddy Bear Clinic in the North American Plaza for checkups