Gator Caught Swimming At Florida Beach

FORT MYERS, FL — Alligators aren’t generally beach lovers, but it seems a 7 ½-footer in the Fort Myers area didn’t get the memo.

The critter created quite a stir among beachgoers last week when it was spotted swimming about 10 feet from shore. Those who saw the alligator initially thought it was a log or a dolphin, but quickly called in the beach patrol for assistance when the realization about its true nature set in.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission was also called out to trap the gator. FWC’s trapper at first tried to hook the critter, witness Janice Fleming told the Fort Myers News-Press. “He hooked it and then he lost it,” the paper quoted Fleming as saying.

A Fort Myers Beach worker ended up having to get a jet ski to help corral the creature in the water so the trapper could catch it, the paper noted.

While alligators aren’t generally found on beaches, FWC officials have said it does happen occasionally. Spring and summer are peak times for alligator activity in the Sunshine State. All reptiles are more active in the warmer months,” FWC spokesman Gary Morse said. “That’s just the cold-blooded creatures’ (way).”

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That increase in activity can lead to an increase in encounters with humans as gators take advantage of this time of year to stretch their legs and see if the grass is greener on the other side of the pond. With that in mind, the state warns residents to appreciate roaming gators from a distance.

For those who like swimming in Florida’s freshwater lakes, ponds and rivers, Morse suggested avoiding heavily vegetated areas. He also warned: “No swimming between dusk and dawn when alligators tend to be active.”

For residents who encounter nuisance alligators, such as those that show up on front door steps, Morse said it’s a good idea to call the state’s hotline. That number is 1-866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286).

He also recommends people who live in or visit Florida brush up on their alligator knowledge.

“It’s imperative that people do their homework, go to our website and learn how to handle (sightings),” he said.

To help out, the state offers a downloadable brochure with the ABCs of cohabitating with these reptiles. “A Guide to Living with Alligators” can be accessed from the state’s website.

Photo courtesy of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission