A routine coffee stop turned into a wildlife encounter Wednesday in Locust Valley, where town officials said they found two sloths and a kangaroo inside a vehicle outside Karmic Grind on Birch Hill Road, according to News 12 Long Island report.
The Town of Oyster Bay issued an appearance ticket to Larry Wallach after authorities said the animals were discovered in his car in violation of the town’s dangerous animals ordinance, which restricts the possession and transportation of certain exotic species within town limits, News 12 detailed in its report.
Officials said the animals, including the kangaroo who Wallach possibly named Bam Bam, were located during an interaction outside the popular café.
No stranger to animal rights folks
Wallach’s name is not new to local officials — or to controversy. Over the years, he has drawn repeated scrutiny from municipal and state agencies over his care, housing, and transport of exotic animals, with past encounters prompting enforcement actions and public concern about animal welfare and safety.
In December — on Christmas Eve — Wallach posted a photo of himself and the kangaroo (that he kept in a giant cloth bag and named Bam Bam) on Facebook.
Those prior run-ins have included disputes over permits and compliance, as well as questions surrounding whether certain animals, including sloths were being kept or moved legally. While Wallach has previously defended his handling of exotic species, officials and animal advocates have said the behavior underscores ongoing challenges in regulating nontraditional pets on Long Island.
Wallach could not be reached for comment. Town officials said Wallach is expected to appear in court at a later date, where the appearance ticket will be addressed.
On social media, including his @larrywallach1 TikTok on which he calls himself “Tiger Larry,” Wallach boasts of keeping numerous exotic animals, including a tiger cub, a 10-week-old lion he named “Hunter,” monkey and sloths.
Top: Larry Wallach with a friend and a kangaroo in December (Facebook/Larry Wallach).
