Apopka police officers had an unusually scaly situation on their hands Tuesday, when they captured a large alligator in a residential neighborhood and got it out of the area without anyone, human or animal, getting hurt. Officials said the department teamed up with a licensed trapper to remove and relocate the reptile.
According to WESH, the agency later shared photos of the capture on social media and reminded residents to keep a safe distance from wildlife. The post laid out key safety tips, including never approaching or feeding alligators, keeping pets leashed, and closely supervising children near the water. The Apopka Police Department was credited for the image.
Who to Call and How Removal Works
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission advises that anyone who believes an alligator poses a threat should contact the agency’s Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program hotline at 866‑FWC‑GATOR (866‑392‑4286). FWC explains that SNAP sends out contracted nuisance alligator trappers to remove animals that threaten people, pets, or property, and to relocate them when appropriate.
Why Gators Turn Up in Neighborhoods
In Central Florida, lakes, canals, and stormwater systems often link residential areas directly to alligator habitat, so spotting one in a yard or near a home is not especially rare. In a previous incident, WFTV reported that a resident discovered a small alligator hiding inside her garage, a reminder that these reptiles can show up where people least expect them.
The Apopka Police Department’s official website and social channels routinely share safety information about living alongside native wildlife, and city officials again stressed that handling alligators is a job for licensed trappers and wildlife professionals. Residents were urged to report concerns to the FWC hotline or to local authorities if they encounter a dangerously close animal…