A seven-foot alligator greeted students during drop-off at Lexington Middle School on Wednesday morning.
A Lee County Sherrif’s K9 handler, who happens to be a former gator trapper, wrangled the visitor.
According to the sheriff’s office, the alligator was taken by MyFWC Florida Fish and Wildlife, where it will be relocated to a safe area.
Alligators have inhabited Florida’s marshes, swamps, rivers, and lakes for many centuries, and are found in all 67 counties.
In recent years, Florida has experienced tremendous human population growth. Many residents seek waterfront homes, and increasingly participate in water-related activities. This can result in more frequent alligator-human interactions, and a greater potential for conflict.
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Although many Floridians have learned to coexist with alligators, the potential for conflict always exists. Serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, but if you are concerned about an alligator, call FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286.
The FWC will dispatch one of its contracted nuisance alligator trappers to resolve the situation.
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