I am an avid animal rights supporter. Many of us are. And most of all, I love crocodilians. To see several of them, mainly American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) in unhealthy and unethical conditions is something that is extremely disturbing to me.

The offender is Fudpucker’s Bar & Grill, which has several locations in the south (namely Okaloosa County, FL). This restaurant chain in notorious for touring around alligator shows and exhibits. However, dozens and dozens of young alligators are cramped in a backyard-sized pool, and face constant stress from observers. Although they may be handed off when they grow too large, the recipients of these beasts aren’t clear. This does not excuse the poor handling of younger alligators. They should be in a larger environment, and cared for by wildlife experts rather than restaurant employees.

Prolonged exposure to small pools of water with little filtration and housing many inhabitants can cause the buildup of waste, such as ammonia, which can prove extremely unhealthy to animals—including humans. These young alligators, also kept in extremely small tanks, should be given proper homes.

These crocodilians have a variety of safe options to be located to, such as Gator Boys Alligator Rescue, or the Saint Augustine Alligator Farm. The Florida FWC will and should ultimately handle the situation.

The goal is to reach 20,000 signatures, which is a little over the entire population of Destin, Florida. More signatures are encouraged and welcomed! The larger this petition becomes, the more steps we can take—such as peaceful protests on public property, contacting wildlife preserves, and contacting the restaurant directly. I will keep fighting for these alligators, but as with anything, outside help is the greatest catalyst.

From one animal lover to another, I implore you to help find these amazing creatures a new home. A restaurant that serves alligator as a dish and keeps them in cramped spaces cannot be entrusted to properly care for them.