"Rare White Alligator Undergoes Surgery to Remove 70 Coins from Stomach at Nebraska Zoo"

Thibodaux, a 36-year-old American alligator at Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska, underwent a stomach procedure to remove 70 coins totaling $7 from his stomach after routine checks revealed the metal foreign objects. The zoo is now cautioning visitors against throwing coins into bodies of water, as alligators' foraging behavior could stir up the coins, some of which may contain toxic chemicals. The zoo also plans to conduct heavy metal blood screening to ensure the alligator's health and is offering visitors the option to exchange loose change for souvenir coins.