TAMPA, Fla. – If you find yourself face-to-face with an alligator while walking down the street in Florida, it can be a daunting and potentially dangerous situation.
If you see an alligator trying to cross a road or highway, it can be deadly for the reptile.
On Monday, Florida Highway Patrol posted photos of a 9-foot alligator that troopers assisted in saving from the busy Selmon Expressway in Tampa.
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“Life is like a box of chocolates – You never know what you’re gonna find! A trapper and a Trooper locate and save a 9-foot alligator from the Selmon Expressway in #Tampa,” said Florida Highway Patrol.
Alligators are a common sight in Florida, and understanding their behavior is crucial when it comes to safely encountering them. Alligators are typically shy and will try to avoid human contact. However, they can sometimes wander into residential areas or cross roads, creating potential hazards.
When encountering an alligator, it’s important to remember that they are wild animals and should be treated with caution. Alligators are most active during the warmer months, and their behavior can change depending on factors such as mating season or territorial disputes.
If you come across an alligator in the street, in your yard, or on a golf course, it’s essential to keep a safe distance. Maintain a distance of at least 30 feet from the alligator and never approach it. Alligators have incredible speed and agility, and they can lunge quickly if they feel threatened.
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Avoid any sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the alligator. Keep children and pets away from the area and ensure that they remain calm and quiet. It’s also important to remember that alligators are excellent climbers and can easily scale fences or walls, so a safe distance should be maintained even if there are barriers in place.
When encountering an alligator, it’s crucial to contact the authorities immediately. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) handles alligator-related issues in Florida. They have trained professionals who can assess the situation and take appropriate action.
To report an alligator sighting or any alligator-related concerns, call the FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286). They will dispatch a contracted nuisance alligator trapper to handle the situation.
When a nuisance alligator is reported, the FWC will evaluate the situation and determine if removal is necessary. Alligator removal is typically done by licensed and trained professionals who follow strict guidelines to ensure the safety of both humans and alligators.
If the alligator is deemed a threat to public safety or is causing a nuisance, it may be trapped and relocated to a more suitable habitat. However, if the alligator is under four feet in length, removal may not be necessary as these smaller alligators are usually not considered a threat.
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