The Alexander Springs public swimming area in Florida’s Ocala National Forest was shut down temporarily Monday after an alligator bit a man while he was snorkeling.
The U.S. Forest Service got word at 12:30 p.m. Monday that the snorkeler was attacked by a 7.5-foot gator.
The snorkeler, unnamed by the U.S. Forest Service, suffered puncture wounds from the alligator’s jaws and teeth. He transported himself in search of medical care. While alligators mainly mate from May through June depending on the temperature, July is the peak of nesting season. Alligators become more aggressive in search of food and protection for their eggs. A nesting alligator was removed from the Alexander Springs swim area earlier this month to prevent incidents akin to the Monday attack.“For the situation, for public safety and for my safety, capturing it alone in a canoe, we ended up having to euthanize it.
As of Wednesday, the Alexander Springs recreation area was once again open to public visitation and use, according to the U.S. Forest Service website. Adventure Ocala, which operates in the Ocala National Forest per agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture that oversees the Forest Service, indicates on its website that the swimming and picnic portions of the site are still closed.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Alligator bites snorkeler in central Florida spring in Ocala National ForestThe man suffered puncture wounds and lacerations and sought medical care on his own, the U.S. Forest Service says.
Read more »
Firefighters are leaving the U.S. Forest Service for better pay, benefits“This is an absolute crisis,” said Max Alonzo, an organizer with the federation. “The majority of people I know already have their applications out for other jobs and they’re just waiting.”
Read more »
Park Forest grandparents charged in death of 5-year-old girl due in bond courtNeighbors said they didn't know a young girl lived in the home.
Read more »
Park Forest grandparents used belt, shoe in beating death of 5-year-oldPolice said that the grandfather called 911 to report that the child was unresponsive, and told a dispatcher, “I was beating my little granddaughter and now she is out of it,” according to court documents.
Read more »
Grandparents charged with murder in death of 5-year-old girl in Park Forest homeA Park Forest couple have been charged with first-degree murder after their 5-year-old granddaughter was found dead in their home, an apparent victim of child abuse, according to police.
Read more »
Grandfather, woman charged in beating death of 5-year-old girl in Park ForestThe Medical Examiner's Office said the bruises, abrasions, and scars on the girl's body were consistent with a pattern of ongoing abuse.
Read more »