Last week in Manatee County, an alligator turned up tangled in a soccer goal net; a scene you don’t expect at your local park.
Wildlife photographer Sheri Nadelman was out walking her doodles in Bradenton when she got word about this surprise pitch invader. Not your usual day at the park.
When deputies arrived, they found the gator wedged into the netting. Four of them got to work. At first, the gator wasn’t interested in cooperation. It took some effort, but the deputies secured its snout and hauled it away without harm. After the rescue, they released the alligator into the Manatee River, hopefully far from any more impromptu soccer matches.
Encounters like this are part of life in Florida. Residents know to stay sharp. Keeping yourself and your pets safe near water means keeping leashes short and pets at least 15 or 20 feet from the edge. Don’t let them swim, wade, or even drink from murky or unfamiliar waters. Remember, gators don’t just drift around; they ambush. Dusk and dawn are prime hunting times for them, so avoid walking pets near the water then. And never use a long retractable leash that might let your dog slip into the “strike zone.”
It’s tempting to feed ducks or turtles at the lake, but that only brings predators closer. Alligators learn fast if food comes from people; they’ll start hanging around.
If you ever spot an alligator, keep your distance. Back away slowly. Don’t panic, but make some noise, stomp or clap, so the animal knows you’re there. If one comes too close, don’t freeze; just run straight and run fast. Zig-zagging’s a myth. Call the FWC Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR if you see one acting aggressively or hanging out where people or pets gather.
And if the worst happens, and a gator attacks, fight back with everything you’ve got. Go for the eyes, nose, or throat. That’s your best shot.
Living with alligators just means staying alert, respecting the water, and knowing what to do if paths cross.
