Later, gator🐊: FWC releases guide to avoid alligator encounters

FLORIDA – Spring is here, and summer is just around the corner. Now that the weather’s getting warmer, Floridians and out-of-towners alike are flocking to Florida’s beaches, lakes, and parks to experience nature and enjoy the sunshine. However, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has warned vacationers to be weary of alligators.

According to the FWC, there is an estimated 1.3 million alligators in Florida, and they can be found in all 67 counties. The FWC also noted that most alligators can be found in wetlands, such as lakes or rivers, where there is adequate food and shelter.

According to the FWC, injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida but still pose a serious risk for Floridians.

To lower the risk of alligator-related injuries, the FWC has released a guide for Floridians and tourists to avoid an alligator attack:

Keep your distance: Keep a safe distance if you see an alligator. The FWC suggests that if someone is concerned about a nearby alligator, they should call FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286, which will send a contracted alligator trapper to resolve the situation.

Keep pets on a leash: Keep your pets on a leash and away from the water’s edge. According to the FWC, pets bear a resemblance to alligators’ natural prey.

Swim only in designated areas: Swim only in designated areas during daylight hours and without your pet. According to the FWC, alligators are most active between dusk and dawn.

Never feed an alligator: According to the FWC, feeding alligators is illegal and dangerous. Additionally, when alligators are fed, they lose their natural wariness and learn to associate people with being fed, leading to a risk of future human-alligator encounters.

For more information, visit MyFWC.com/Alligator