FORT MYERS, Fla. — Florida Fish and Wildlife wants the public to know how to coexist with alligators.
FWC says warm spring weather means that the American alligator becomes more active and visible.
It’s also a popular time of year for people to enjoy the outdoors with their pets.
To help keep people and pets safer when spending time near the water, FWC is introducing a few new tips.
FWC says when temperatures rise, alligators’ metabolism increases, and they begin moving around more as they seek food. People are more likely to see them during this time.
FWC has these tips that can help reduce the risk of a conflict with an alligator:
Keep pets on a leash and a safe distance away from the water’s edge because pets can resemble alligators’ natural prey.
Swim only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours and never allow your pet to swim in fresh or brackish water.
If you believe an alligator poses a threat to people, pets, or property, call FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR(866-392-4286), and we will dispatch a contracted nuisance alligator trapper to resolve the situation.
