THE hunt is on for what is thought to be a crocodile spotted in a pond in Xertigny in the Vosges.

Several witnesses including the fire brigade, and the owner of the two-hectare Monnin pond, claim to have seen the reptile – reported to be between 1.5m and 2m long - however it has not yet been determined whether it is a crocodile, alligator or a cayman.

The local mairie has ordered the capture of the creature following advice from hunting authority the Office national de la chasse et de la faune sauvage.

The hunt was officially opened yesterday.

It is as not yet known where the creature has come from.