'Godzilla' the alligator, rescued after being mistreated as illegal pet, dies at Bronx Zoo

"Godzilla," the alligator that was found last February swimming in a lake in Prospect Park in Brooklyn, New York, has died, the Bronx Zoo reported Saturday.

Park employees found the animal in a lethargic state and cold shock. After being rescued, the animal was found to be malnourished and had ingested a 10-centimeter bathtub stopper.

Despite efforts to save it, including tube feeding and successful removal of the plug, the alligator was unable to survive due to a history of mistreatment and died.

The Bronx Zoo, which took care of the animal, has issued a statement reminding that wild animals are not pets and asking people not to keep them in their homes.

Godzilla's death was described as a tragic case of animal abuse by zoo authorities.