Pinellas County deputy 'plays lifeguard,’ kicks gator out of private pool
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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - Thinking about taking a dip in the pool this weekend? You may want to check it for gators before jumping in.
An alligator was recently spotted swimming in a Pinellas County backyard pool much to the surprise of the homeowners.
According to a Facebook post by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Heather Harris had to play lifeguard and kick the unwanted reptile out of the pool.
The post ended by stating, "It’s another interesting day in Tampa Bay."
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This is just one of several reports of alligator sightings, which are on the increase due to the beginning of gator mating season. Though it typically begins in May or June, courtship starts in early April -- which means more of the reptiles venture out in search of their mates.
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By late June or early July, female gators will lay between 32 to 46 eggs. Incubation periods for alligators take about 60 to 65 days, and baby gators will be born in late August or early September, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
FWC provides the following safety tips when it comes to alligators:
Generally, alligators less than four feet in length are not large enough to be dangerous unless handled. However, if you encounter any alligator that you believe poses a threat to people, pets or property, call the Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWCGATOR (866-392-4286). Please be aware, nuisance alligators are killed, not relocated.
Be aware of the possibility of alligators when you are in or near fresh or brackish water. Bites may occur when people do not pay close enough attention to their surroundings when working or recreating near water.
WATCH: 10-foot alligator found underneath car at Tampa apartment complex
Do not swim outside of posted swimming areas or in waters that might be inhabited by large alligators.
Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn. Therefore, avoid swimming at night.
Dogs and cats are similar in size to the natural prey of alligators. Don’t allow pets to swim, exercise or drink in or near waters that may contain alligators.
WATCH: Large alligators wrestle in Lakewood Ranch backyard as mating season gets underway
Dogs often attract an alligator’s interest, so do not swim with your dog.
Leave alligators alone. State law prohibits killing, harassing or possessing alligators. Handling even small alligators can result in injury.
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