Living With Our Wild Neighbors
Adjacent to the Myakka State Forest, which itself spans 8,593 acres, Wellen Park has incorporated areas of conservation around its neighborhoods and trails. Lizards, toads, snails, egrets, hawks, turtles, wild boars, bobcats, alligators, and snakes also call Wellen Park their home. While exciting to observe from a safe distance, some of these animals can be dangerous when approached. It is important to know how to respond to unexpected close encounters.
What if I encounter an alligator?
According to CNN’s Forrest Brown, if you spot an alligator, remain at least 60 feet away. Such ample distance is necessary as they can run up to 35mph on dry land. It is also recommended to keep 10 feet between yourself and bodies of water that alligators might inhabit. Alligators may charge at people if they feel threatened or have become familiar enough with humans to approach them without fear. While many people have been told that the best way to escape an alligator is to run in zig-zag formation, this has been proven false. Instead, run in a straight line. Alligators tire after running short distances.
What if an alligator attacks?
In an interview with NPR, Frank Mazzotti, professor of Wildlife Ecology at the University of Florida says, "My words of advice are fight as if your life depends upon it. Because it does. Punch the alligator, poke it in the eyes, hit it in the head. If you've got a hand in its mouth, stick it down in its gullet. Do everything that you can to force the alligator to release you."
If you encounter someone else being attacked by an alligator, do not follow them into the water. Instead, call 9-1-1 and do what you can to help from land.
If you're concerned about an alligator, call the Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286)
How do I respond to a snake bite?
If you are bitten by a snake, Cedars-Sinai says to call 9-1-1 or go to the hospital right away – even if you believe the snake is nonvenomous. While awaiting medical treatment, stay still to slow the spread of the venom, remove jewelry around areas that are beginning to swell to avoid cuts, place a clean and dry cloth over the bite, and ask to be carried. It is also helpful to try take note of the size, shape, and color of the snake to aid doctors in their diagnosis.
How should I handle a wild boar encounter?
Southwest Florida Water Management District states that, “like any other wild animal, hogs can be dangerous if threatened or with young.” The best way to handle a close encounter with a wild boar is to not provoke or feed them, stay calm, and move away slowly.
We share our outdoor space with an array of unique and striking creatures. Safety is key when exploring our mutual habitat. It is vital to know how to coexist with and respect wildlife here in Wellen Park and beyond.
