A Florida homeowner’s backyard pool became an unexpected wildlife scene when deputies found a 7-foot alligator floating in the water.
The incident happened May 31 in the Pinecrest Lakes neighborhood of Jensen Beach, according to The Cool Down.
Deputies with the Martin County Sheriff’s Office responded after the alligator was reported as an uninvited pool visitor.
When a large wild animal ends up inside a fenced yard, lanai, pool area, or patio, homeowners should keep people and pets away, stay out of the animal’s path, and call trained responders instead of trying to remove it themselves.
The Alligator Was Removed by a Professional Trapper
FOX 35 reported that deputies found the alligator in the backyard pool and worked with professional trapper Matt Hines to remove it. Video from the scene showed the alligator resisting as the trapper used an animal control pole.
Officials described the sharp twisting motion as a natural defense response and warned residents not to try removing an alligator unless they are trained to do so.
Officials Said It Was the Second Pool Call That Day
The sheriff’s office said the Jensen Beach call was the second report that day involving an alligator in a residential pool in the area.
Authorities said the 7-foot alligator was safely removed. They also said it may have reached the pool area by climbing over the backyard fence or finding a way underneath it.
May and June Bring More Alligator Movement
FOX 35 reported that officials reminded residents to stay alert during alligator mating season, which is most active in May and June. During that period, alligators may move through neighborhoods, yards, ponds, canals, golf-course lakes, and pool areas as they search for mates or territory.
Pool owners should check yards before letting children or pets outside, especially when a home backs up to water or natural habitat.
Florida Has a Hotline for Nuisance Alligators
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says people concerned about an alligator should call the Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR.
FWC says an alligator is generally considered a nuisance if it is at least 4 feet long and believed to pose a threat to people, pets, or property.
The agency also tells residents to keep their distance, never feed alligators, swim only in designated areas during daylight, and keep pets leashed and away from the water.