MARION COUNTY, Fla. – A man said he was bitten by a 7-and-a-half-foot alligator while snorkeling at a Central Florida spring Monday, according to National Forests in Florida.
The “aggressive alligator” incident happened about 12:30 p.m. Monday at the Alexander Springs Recreation Area in the Ocala National Forest, officials said. The man was snorkeling in the springs’ designated swimming area at the time he reported the alligator bite.
The man suffered puncture wounds and lacerations and sought medical care on his own after the on-site operator was able to render aid to the man. His condition is unknown at this time.
The swimming area was closed for safety, but it’s expected to reopen soon after the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission finishes its investigation into the incident.
The alligator believed to be involved was removed by the FWC.
NEARLY 400-POUND GREEN SEA TURTLE RESCUED FROM FLORIDA’S SPACE COAST
Alexander Springs briefly closed earlier this month to remove another alligator, but no one else has been hurt by alligators at Ocala National Forest this year, officials said.
National Forests in Florida shared the following alligator safety tips: