Louisiana men cited for stealing 523 alligator eggs

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - Agents with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries cited two men, who they say took alligator eggs without a valid egg collection permit.

According to the department, Paul A. Canik, 47 of Grand Chenier, and Christopher M. Trahan, 24, of Lake Charles did not abide by state rules and regulations while on a refuge.

Agents stopped Canik and Trahan on July 16, 2015, as they were exiting the marsh in an airboat and flatboat. Canik allegedly told the agents that the eggs he had in his possession were taken from areas he was permitted to collect eggs from.

Upon further investigation, the department says agents located nest sites where the eggs had been removed. The agents said these locations were not part of the area that Canik had been permitted to collect eggs from.

Several days later, on July 21, 2015, agents seized 523 alligator eggs, an 18' aluminum boat, and a 14' airboat.

First offense for taking unpermitted alligator eggs carries a fine ranging from $400-$900, and up to 120 days in jail.