The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) alerted residents this Saturday about a greater presence of alligators and snakes in flooded areas following the passage of Hurricane Isaias and urged them to keep their distance from any wildlife displaced by the storm.
In a published post the state agency reminded that major weather phenomena can disrupt habitats and lead to more frequent encounters between people and animals.
"The alligators and snakes are more commonly observed after a heavy storm, especially in areas with flooding," warned the FWC, which advises to keep a safe distance and give them space.
The agency itself explains in its official guide on wildlife and storms that alligators may appear more frequently in flooded areas after hurricanes or tropical storms, while the rise in water levels also increases the likelihood of spotting snakes.
In the event that an alligator poses a threat to people, pets, or property, the FWC requests that you contact their specialized line for problematic alligators at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286).
The recommendation for snakes is equally straightforward: do not attempt to capture them or get close. The agency reminds that most species that may be found after a storm are non-venomous and usually try to avoid people, but they may react if they feel threatened.
The alert is not limited to reptiles. Adverse conditions and strong waves can cause manatees to become stranded or trapped, a situation that may require immediate assistance from specialists.
The FWC requests that any stranded, injured, or dead manatee be reported to the wildlife alert line at 888-404-3922, and advises against attempting to move the animal on your own.
Storms can also wash small sea turtles that have already reached the ocean back onto land. The agency notes that they may become entangled in seaweed or even appear in unusual places, such as pools and backyards, and recommends contacting specialized personnel.
Another risk arises during the post-hurricane cleanup efforts. Bears may be attracted to food and debris that may have been left exposed among the rubble, so the FWC advises separating and securing food waste.
The warning comes after Isaias made landfall near Destin as a category 2 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 105 mph and heavy rain that caused flooding in areas of northwest Florida.
Although the cyclone weakened rapidly after making landfall, authorities warned that the risk of flooding persisted in the Panhandle and Big Bend region due to accumulated rainfall and rising rivers.
The system also left nearly 450,000 homes and businesses without electricity after passing through Florida, in addition to damage from wind and storm surge.
Encounters with alligators are not unusual in Florida. In July, the FWC itself explained that the reduction of their habitat due to drought had increased sightings near populated areas, forcing the animals to move in search of water.
Related videos:
Filed under: