A crocodile that was found in Pat Heung in the New Territories on Sunday is now under the care of Ocean Park.

In a statement, Ocean Park said the reptile was transferred from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) to the theme park on Sunday evening after it was seized by police and AFCD staff earlier in the afternoon.

"Preliminary checkup conducted by the Park's veterinarians shows that the crocodile is female and measures about 1.9m in length and 35kg in weight. It is estimated to be around four years old and resembles the characteristics of a Siamese crocodile, but further examination will be required to confirm its species," the statement said.

"The crocodile displays active behaviour and will be held temporarily at Ocean Park’s quarantine facility for appropriate care by its veterinary and animal teams who have extensive experience in alligator care."

Ocean Park appealed to the public not to illegally purchase or raise protected wild animals, for their own and others' safety as well as animal welfare considerations.