Photo: TexPhoto / E+ / Getty Images
Collier County, FL - A man walking his dogs in Collier County was bitten by an 11-foot alligator and is receiving treatment, while wildlife officials removed the gator and advised keeping a safe distance from these wild animals.
While walking his dogs near Immokalee Road, the man was attacked by an 11-foot alligator that bit him on the leg.
He was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) dispatched a Nuisance Alligator Trapper to remove the gator from the area.
FWC urges residents to maintain a safe distance from alligators, keep pets on leashes to avoid resembling prey, and never feed these wild animals.
Feeding creates dangerous situations as alligators begin to associate humans with food.
Thankfully, serious alligator injuries are uncommon in Florida. The FWC's Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP) aims to ensure public safety by addressing alligator threats in populated areas.
The program utilizes contracted trappers to remove nuisance alligators that pose a risk to people, pets, or property.
Residents with concerns about alligators can contact the toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286).
FWC will dispatch a SNAP trapper to handle the situation.