CHICAGO — Efforts continue Thursday to capture the alligator in the Humboldt Park Lagoon, but experts aren’t giving up hope. The gator was first spotted Tuesday morning by photographer Ren Horst-Ruiz who was taking pictures with clients, as was later confirmed by Chicago police. There has not been any alligator sightings Thursday. City crews put up fencing to keep people from getting in the water. Experts put new traps in the lagoon in hopes the animal will swim into one and be safely removed. “Alligator Bob” from the Chicago Herpetological Society spent his second full day scouring the lagoon in his canoe, trying to trap the animal. He says he’s had no luck with the traps so far. The hunt for the five feet long American alligator has spawned “Gator Watch” merchandise, tote bags and t-shirts, from Block Club Chicago and made Alligator Bob a local celebrity. The alligator has been spotted by spectators several times over the past few days — including our WGN photographers. The Chicago Police Department posted warnings around the lagoon, and advised people to stay away from the water. Mayor Lori Lightfoot is also keeping a close eye on what she calls “gator-gate.” Alligator Bob says Illinois Conservation Police will offer assistance to try to catch the reptile.