A 104-year-old Florida resident got a surprise visitor on Monday - a 5-foot alligator. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office responded to the woman's call near Atlantic Boulevard and Art Museum Drive. Officers reported on social media that they "have quite the 'tail' to tell" about the encounter.
Luckily, with the help of licensed trapper Mike Dragich, the gator was safely captured and relocated. The officers joked that they "couldn't cuff him" but assured the public that the gator was "alive and well in a different location."
The social media post reads, "We can't cuff him." Officer Kopp and Johnson have quite the "tail" to tell about responding to a nuisance gator's home near Atlantic Boulevard and Art Museum Drive on Monday. Licensed trapper Mike Dragich was chomping at the bit to snap into action and help the grandma say, "See you later, alligator." Before your jaw drops, the trapper says the 5-foot catch of the day is alive and well in a different location. All in a day's work.
Alligators are common in Florida and can be found in many freshwater habitats, including lakes, rivers, swamps, and even some brackish areas. However, it's not super common to find them right next to houses.
They are adaptable creatures and will sometimes wander into suburban areas, especially if there are ponds or canals nearby.
While not common in backyards, alligators are adaptable and can wander into populated areas near water sources like ponds or canals. Florida residents are advised to stay alert near water and maintain a safe distance from alligators.
