Reporting A Nuisance Alligator

FWC defines nuisance alligators as at least 4 ft in length and displaying aggressive behavior. 
See below for more information on alligators in Florida.

Alligators
At certain times of year we are apt to see more activity from the indigenous fauna of the state ... as waters recede and flora dies out (due to drought conditions) ... and when it's mating season.  At such times, alligators within the community may be moving from pond to pond, and occasionally make their way into your yard.  If you happen to see an alligator that does not appear to be afraid of poeple, is in a yard or is someplace other than a pond or wetland/conservation area, or one that poses a potential threat, you should report it to FWC's Alligator Nuisance Hotline 866-392-4286.  FWC needs a firsthand witness to inform them of the location, time, activity, size, and behavior of the alligator to determine if it is a nuisance (i.e. the alligator is in excess of 4 ft and showing some signs of aggression and/or approaching people/private property).  An alligator lying on the bank, or swimming in a stormwater pond is not necessarily considered to be aggressive.

After reporting a nuisance alligator to FWC, contact the District Manager and share the FWC report number.  The District Manager will then call FWC to authorize a permitted trapper to legally access CDD property to trap the alligator. Please keep in mind that since alligators travel between ponds, a trapper may not be successful in trapping the reported alligator, but will make every effort to do so.  Alligators determined to be a nuisance will be euthanized, they will not be relocated.

Please note:
1) CDD stormwater ponds are not designed or maintained for recreational use; fishing, swimming, and/or boating activities are NOT permitted.

2) The CDD advises against anyone approaching or walking along pond banks, particularly at night.  (Gator expert, Brandon Fisher with Gatorland, Orlando, FL, recommends leaving a buffer of  25 ft from the waters edge.) 

3) Allowing pets to run at large/roam freely on CDD property is prohibited.  While on public (CDD) property, pet owners are responsible for exercising sufficient care and control of their animal(s).  Per Pasco Ordinance 14-97, all dogs shall be under the direct control (i.e. immediate, continuous physical control of an animal at all times such as by means of a fence, leash, cord or chain of such strength to restrain the animal) of a person who is capable of controlling and managing such dog.  Pets are not allowed to interact with and/or harass wildlife…as it puts both in danger.  

4) It is illegal to feed alligators (F.S. 372.667(1) - this is the most common reason wildlife lose their natural fear of humans and approach residents, thus becoming a nuisance.  Feeding wildlife is considered a Level Two violation under s. 372.83.  If you see someone breaking the law (i.e. feeding alligators or any other wildlife, taunting or interacting in any way with them, or allowing their pet to harass wildlife), contact FWC's Law Enforcement Branch, at 863-648-3200 or 888-404-FWCC (3922).  Cell phone users can reach them at #FWC, depending on the service provider.

Links:
Guide to Living with Alligators Brochure
Protect Your Pet Brochure
FWC Alligator Management Program

If you encounter a nuisance alligator, report it to FWC's Alligator Nuisance Hotline 866-392-4286, then forward the FWC Report Number to the District Manager.

Thank you, 
Your District Mangement Team