Alligators Emerge from Hurricane Milton Floodwaters in North Fort Myers

In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, residents of North Fort Myers were alarmed to find alligators appearing in floodwaters, with one particularly concerning encounter caught on video. The footage, captured by a local resident, shows an alligator emerging from the flood, biting a car tire, and menacingly close to the vehicle’s door. The scene serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that persist following severe weather events.

Wildlife expert Christopher Gillette, who operates an animal sanctuary in northern Florida, shared insights into alligator behavior after the storm. “The alligators are going to be on the move in the floodwaters,” Gillette stated in a video where he was seen crouched beside an alligator. He advised residents to avoid floodwaters whenever possible, emphasizing that while emergency situations may require venturing out, it’s safer to stay clear of the water.

Gillette explained that during the storm, alligators typically hunker down, capable of holding their breath for extended periods. However, once the storm subsides, the floodwaters provide easy transit routes for these creatures. He warned of the increased risk they pose, particularly to small pets, urging residents to keep animals indoors or away from the floodwaters.

Additionally, Gillette cautioned against interacting with potentially dangerous displaced wildlife, including venomous snakes, which may be driven out of their natural habitats due to flooding. “The majority of venomous snake bites happen when people try to kill the snake,” he noted, advising people to leave them undisturbed.

The current situation highlights the broader impact of natural disasters on both human populations and wildlife, urging a compassionate approach to animals seeking refuge amidst such chaos. The plea for caution and consideration is particularly timely as communities navigate the recovery process following Hurricane Milton.