A Mulberry resident’s front yard became an unexpected wildlife sanctuary Wednesday when a colossal alligator decided to take up residence.
Deputies say the gator, captured in photos by local resident Jacob, was seen hissing at passersby from its comfortable spot on the lawn.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office received a call from concerned resident Rhonda, alerting them to the situation. Deputies promptly responded to the scene, ensuring the safety of residents while awaiting the arrival of a trapper.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office shared the encounter on social media with the hashtag #WildlifeWednesday, showcasing the unique challenges and encounters that law enforcement officers face in the Sunshine State.
Living in harmony with Florida’s alligators:
- Keep Your Distance: Always maintain a safe distance from alligators, even small ones. Remember, they are wild animals and can be unpredictable.
- Never Feed Them: Feeding alligators is illegal and dangerous. It can cause them to lose their natural fear of humans and become aggressive.
- Swim Smart: Swim only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours. Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn.
- Supervise Pets and Children: Keep pets on a leash and away from the water’s edge. Children should be supervised near any body of water.
- Dispose of Fish Scraps Properly: Don’t discard fish scraps in the water or on shore near your home. This can attract alligators.
Report Nuisance Alligators: If you see an alligator that appears to be a threat to people or pets, call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286).