Snooki's ex-boyfriend has a reptilian connection to her new baby Lorenzo -- telling TMZ, he's personally responsible for Enzo's favorite stuffed crocodile ... but the TWIST ... he didn't get it for the kid.
Emilio Masella -- who dated Snooki for 8 months back in 2010 -- tells us he won the crocodile for Snooki at a Dave and Busters during their relationship ... and she's pretty much cherished it ever since ... despite changing boyfriends ... and getting pregnant.
Its name is Crocodilly -- and it's made several appearances on "Jersey Shore" as well as Snooki's new spin-off with Jwoww ... even though the guy who gave it to her is long out of the picture.
Most recently, the croc made a dramatic appearance in the People mag spread about Snooki's new bundle of joy (above).
Emilio says it's proof Snooki still has feelings for him -- but c'mon people, it's just a damn toy.
A rep for Snooki had no comment.
See also
Snooki -- FIRST PHOTO OF HAIRY BABY!!
Snooki Gives Birth -- Ready for Baby #2?
Snooki Gives Birth to Baby Boy
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