TAMPA, Fla. — A Tampa woman found more proof this week that alligator mating season is in full swing as a wayward gator found its way into her neighborhood this week.
Jennifer Becker arrived home from work Tuesday to find the gator right in front of her neighbor’s front door.
The gator finally gave up on trying to get inside, and ended up in a nearby pond. Becker said she’s lived in Florida most of her life and has seen plenty of alligators, but never this close.
You’ll want to steer clear of gators this time of the year, because they are typically more active and aggressive when looking for love.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, we are in the midst of alligator mating season, as courtship begins in early April and mating occurs between May and June.
The FWC reminds the public to never feed an alligator and keep your distance if you see one.
“Swim only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours. And keep pets on a leash and away from the water,” the FWC warns on its website.
People with concerns about an alligator may call FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286.
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