Tips to Keep Your Family and Pets Safe Around Alligators This Summer

As Floridians spend more time enjoying the outdoors this summer, residents and visitors are reminded to stay alert around natural bodies of water.

Alligators are found throughout Florida, including in Hillsborough County. They play an important role in the state's ecosystem, and residents and visitors should always assume an alligator could be present in any freshwater body.

Though serious alligator attacks are rare, recent incidents involving alligators across the state underscore the importance of following a few simple safety precautions near lakes, ponds, rivers, wetlands, and canals.

Stay safe around alligators

Hillsborough County encourages people to follow these safety tips whenever spending time near the water:

• Do not approach, feed, or interact with alligators
• Supervise children closely near lakes, ponds, canals, and other freshwater areas
• Swim only in designated swimming areas and only during daylight hours
• Follow posted signage and do not harass an alligator if spotted
• Be especially cautious during dawn, dusk, and nighttime, when alligators are generally more active
• If you see an alligator, give it plenty of space and let it move away on its own
  

Protect your pets near the water

Pets are especially vulnerable around alligator habitats. Dogs, in particular, can resemble an alligator's natural prey and may attract unwanted attention when walking near freshwater areas.

To help keep pets safe:

• Always keep dogs on a short leash and maintain control when walking near the water's edge
• Avoid allowing pets to swim or play in freshwater where alligators may be present
• Walk pets during daylight hours whenever possible, and use extra caution at dawn and dusk
  

Reporting a nuisance alligator

Residents should never attempt to handle or relocate an alligator. If an alligator appears aggressive or poses a threat to people or pets, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Wildlife officials will determine whether the animal meets the criteria for removal.

Enjoy the outdoors responsibly

Summer is one of the busiest times for outdoor recreation in Hillsborough County. By staying aware of your surroundings and respecting wildlife, residents and visitors can safely enjoy the County's parks, trails, lakes, and waterways all season long.

Explore all the outdoor recreation opportunities across Hillsborough County and learn how the Conservation Environmental Lands Management department protects the region's natural beauty.