Gator Removed From South FL Beach: City

DELRAY BEACH, FL — While alligator sightings are a common Florida experience, they’re not normally seen on the beach.

That’s why beachgoers were so surprised to spot a massive gator in the surf Wednesday at Delray Beach.

The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission responded to the beach after receiving a number of calls about the misguided gator, the city of Delray Beach shared on Facebook.

“While the American alligator prefers freshwater lakes, slow-moving rivers, and wetlands, they are occasionally seen in brackish water. Alligators can tolerate saltwater for short periods,” the city added.

An FWC-contacted nuisance alligator trapper was sent to the beach to remove the reptile, which was brought to a farm alive.

Delay Beach Police Department, Delray Beach Fire Rescue and lifeguards also responded.

It’s rare that gators cause serious injuries to people, the city said.

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The FWC’s Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program addresses alligator concerns in areas where they threaten people, pets and property. The program strives to conserve gators in areas where they naturally occur.

People with concerns about an alligator should call FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286).