When the Swampscott Police and Fire Departments each got their own pet, the Department of Public Works (DPW) staffers in town felt a little bit left out. At first, the plan was to get a fish tank for the DPW building at 200 Paradise Road, but when a DPW worker’s brother was looking to re-home his bearded dragon, a match was made.

Pasta, an 18-inch long bearded dragon, now has made himself at home in the DPW building. Everybody there looks after him, but workers refer to Evan Segal as Pasta’s “Godfather.”

“The guys in here were super jealous,” Segal said.

When the DPW crew returns to its headquarters after a day of work, Pasta is always looking for someone to feed him, Segal said. Pasta’s diet consists of crickets, mealworms and kale to maintain a healthy balance.

“He livens the place up,” said Segal. “He’s been great. Everybody gets a laugh with him.”

Pasta is named after Boston Bruins hockey star David Pastrnak, who fans have nicknamed “Pasta.”

Pasta has been in his new home for three months, but he has been rapidly growing. The DPW staff is looking to upgrade his 45-gallon tank.

Despite being a hit with the staff, some have their issues with Pasta’s work ethic, particularly this winter season, Segal joked.

“He doesn’t shovel snow enough around here,” Segal said.