A massive alligator was caught attempting to enter a home in the community of Ave María, in Collier County, Florida.
The unusual moment was captured on video and has gone viral on social media in recent days.
The author of the recording, Erling Berg, shared the material on his social media and explained that the incident occurred last Thursday when he came face to face with the reptile right in front of a friend's house.
According to reports, the animal remained alone for a while before calmly returning to one of the neighborhood ponds.
Alligators in Residential Areas: A Common Phenomenon in Florida
For Florida residents, this type of gathering is common.
During the mating season, it is common for alligators to leave their usual habitat in search of new areas to settle, often leading them to urban and suburban areas.
This case adds to other recent episodes in the state.
In May, for instance, a crocodile was spotted approaching the door of a house in the Tortuga community, also in Florida. In that case, the animal even seemed to "knock" on the door before being captured by agents who quickly responded to the scene.
He was later handed over, unharmed, to an authorized trapper.
Recommendations from the authorities
In light of these situations, authorities remind the public to remain calm and avoid any interaction with the animals.
In case of sighting or threat, it is advisable to contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the agency responsible for wildlife management in the state.
Experts warn that it is crucial to remain vigilant and follow official recommendations to prevent larger incidents.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alligators in Residential Areas of Florida
Why do alligators often appear in residential areas of Florida?
Alligators often appear in residential areas during mating season, when they search for new places to settle outside their usual habitat. This often leads them to move into urban and suburban areas in search of food or a mate.
What should Florida residents do if they see an alligator on their property?
In the event of a crocodile sighting, residents should remain calm and avoid any interaction with the animal. It is advisable to contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the agency responsible for managing wildlife in the state, to handle the situation safely.
What are the recommendations to avoid dangerous encounters with crocodiles?
To avoid dangerous encounters with alligators, it is recommended not to leave trash or food scraps outdoors and to keep doors and windows securely closed. It is also helpful to install physical barriers if you live near bodies of water. Additionally, it is important not to feed alligators and to maintain a safe distance in case of sightings.
How does Florida manage the alligator population?
Florida has a program for population control of alligators that regulates their hunting through an authorized season for hunters. This program has been in effect since 1988 and is part of the conservation strategies coordinated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), aimed at preventing serious incidents between alligators and humans.
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