(WSBT) The Humane Society of Elkhart County is saying, "See ya later, alligator!" Two of those reptiles have left the Humane Society of Elkhart County for a new home.

The gators were brought to the shelter about three months ago by people who would not say where they got them. Friday they were moved to the Washington Park Zoo in Michigan City.

"Steve" and "Terry" are named after the late Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, and his wife. They moved so they can grow larger in a more natural environment.

The Executive Director of the Humane Society of Elkhart County, Eric Durcinka, told WSBT News their size depends on their living space. Alligators can grow to be up to eight feet long.

That's a far cry from Steve's 24 inches. It might be even more surprising to learn that little guys like these really are not that uncommon at local shelters.

"This is probably the sixth one, maybe seventh that I've delt with in regards to alligators," Durcinka told WSBT News. "We've had to go and take them from certain houses at times but most of the time somebody notifies us because they're concerned with the animal's living condition."

He said usually a very concerned neighbor, family member or friend notifies the shelter if someone has an alligator as a pet. Durcinka also said alligators have very specific dietary and living needs.

After about a year at the Washington Park Zoo, the gators will be moved to a permenant zoo somewhere in the United States.