Female Kayaker Hospitalized After Alligator Attack At Florida Preserve

Polk County, FL - A woman kayaking in Polk County's Tiger Creek Preserve was bitten by an alligator on the elbow.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the incident occurred on Monday while the woman was paddling in the preserve.

Following the attack, the woman was airlifted to Osceola Regional Medical Center for treatment; her current condition has not been disclosed.

The FWC responded to the scene alongside Polk County Fire Rescue and dispatched a contracted nuisance alligator trapper to locate and remove the alligator from the area.

Alligator expert Brandon Fisher from Gatorland noted that such incidents, while uncommon, can occur, especially during breeding season when alligators may become more territorial.

He advised kayakers and others engaging in water activities to remain vigilant and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.

The FWC emphasizes safety around alligators and offers the following guidelines:

• Keep a safe distance if you see an alligator. If concerned, contact the FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286), and a contracted nuisance alligator trapper will be dispatched to address the situation.
• Keep pets on a leash and away from the water’s edge, as they can resemble alligators’ natural prey.
• Swim only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours and without pets. Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn.
• Never feed an alligator. It’s illegal and dangerous. Feeding alligators can cause them to lose their natural fear of humans, potentially leading to dangerous situations.

These precautions are crucial to minimize the risk of alligator encounters, particularly during the breeding season from early April to June, when alligators are more active and territorial.

The FWC continues to investigate the incident and urges the public to exercise caution in areas known to be inhabited by alligators.