LAKE COUNTY, Fla. – A man suffered puncture wounds and cuts Monday afternoon when he was attacked by an alligator while snorkeling at Alexander Springs in the Ocala National Forest, officials said.
The attack, which happened around 12:30 p.m., prompted National Forests in Florida to temporarily close the Alexander Springs swim area, which is located between Astor and Altoona.
“Every body of water has a potential to have an alligator, especially the springs,” said Chad Weber of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. “I mean, that’s kind of a misconception that just because the water’s cooler, they won’t be in there.”
The nearly 8-foot-long alligator believed to be involved in the incident was removed and the swim area is expected to reopen in the near future, officials said.
The victim said he was snorkeling in the designated swim area when he was bitten by a large gator.
Adventure Ocala, the concessioner permitted by the United States Forest Service to operate Alexander Springs, rendered aid to the victim, cleared all guests from the swim area and closed it for public safety.
According to FWC, alligators tend to be more active during the summer months, which could have been a factor behind the attack.
“We encourage people not to swim during early-morning hours or late at night when there’s, you know, where alligators are more active,” Weber said. “And obviously, if you encounter an alligator in the wild, we strongly discourage people to approach them.”
The man chose to seek medical treatment himself, according to officials.
No other details about the victim have been released.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission removed the aggressive alligator believed to be involved in the attack.
Alexander Springs was briefly closed earlier this month for the removal of a different gator.
NESTING SEASON
July is alligator nesting season in Florida, meaning gator mothers are very alert and protective of their eggs and young.
All reptiles are more active and need to eat more during nesting season.
Alexander Springs’ swim area was originally closed on July 10 due to a separate alligator incident, though it was eventually reopened and deemed safe for swimming on July 14.
Officials urge caution in and around water as alligators are masters of camouflage, blending seamlessly into their natural environment. They are not easily detected underwater, no matter how clear the water may appear, and are very territorial, particularly during this time of year.
ALEXANDER SPRINGS
Only 27 first-magnitude springs exist in Florida, and Alexander Springs is one of the easiest to enjoy.
A broad and gently sloped spring pool is a constant 72 degrees and extraordinarily clear.