Alligator attacks child swimming in restricted Florida waters
The child suffered non-fatal injuries at Weeki Wachee Preserve, where swimming is prohibited.
This video from the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office shows a wrangler removing a 10-foot-long alligator from the parking lot of a local 7-Eleven gas station in Venice, Florida, on Dec. 9.
A child was attacked by an alligator while swimming in restricted Florida waters on Labor Day.
The victim was swimming in the Weeki Wachee Preserve, about 60 miles northwest of Tampa, according to a statement from the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office. The alligator punctured the swimmer’s arm and leg, and the child was transported to the Bayonet Point Hospital for treatment of the non-fatal injuries.
Officials note that the victim and a group of children became isolated on a sandbar and were rescued by Hernando County Fire Rescue. Following the incident, a licensed Florida wildlife trapper placed traps for the alligator, which was estimated to be between 9 and 12 feet long.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is investigating the swimming violation.
“For your safety, please use extreme caution around waterways and follow all posted rules and restrictions,” the sheriff’s office said in the statement. “Do not swim in areas where swimming is prohibited.”
Florida, Naples, warning sign, no fishing, swimming, beware of alligators. (Photo by: Jeffrey Greenberg/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Located in Spring Hill, the Weeki Wachee Preserve is home to a variety of habitats including swamps, marshes and river frontage, according to the Southwest Florida Water Management District. While the area offers many recreational opportunities, such as fishing and hiking, swimming is not allowed in any of the lakes.
Staying safe in Florida's alligator country
A string of alligator encounters occurred this summer, with three attacks in a span of seven days. Two of the victims sustained injuries, while the third died after suffering from serious wounds.
The chance of being attacked by an alligator is 1 in 24 million, per the Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District. The FWC noted that the state averages about eight unprovoked bites per year. Despite the low odds, it is important to coexist with these reptiles, since alligators are a significant part of Florida’s ecosystem.
A baby alligator is seen at Lake Apopka in Florida. (Photo by Ronen Tivony/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Experts report that 75 percent of alligator attacks occur during their mating season from May to September, when males are more aggressive and females are protective of their nests. About 90 percent of attacks also occur when people swim close to the water’s edge, where the animals can easily reach them.
Officials advise people to look out for alligators while swimming and to never approach the animals or their nests. Contrary to the myth of running in a zigzag pattern, run in a straight line if an alligator charges, since they cannot run long distances. If bitten, seek immediate medical attention, as their mouths contain bacteria that could cause an infection. People are also encouraged to contact the FWC if they believe an alligator is dangerous.
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