A North Florida man snorkeling in a designated swimming area at Alexander Springs Recreation Area in Ocala National Forest was bitten by an alligator on Monday, July 17. The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m., leaving the man with puncture wounds and lacerations.

Staff at Adventure Ocala, a recreation concessioner operating in the springs, assisted the injured snorkeler. U.S. Forest Service (USFS) personnel quickly cleared the swim area and closed it to the public. The man subsequently left to seek medical attention on his own.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was contacted and removed a 7.5-foot alligator later that afternoon. The FWC classified the reptile as a "nuisance alligator" due to the threat it posed. The alligator was dispatched by a contracted trapper as part of the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP). Typically, nuisance alligators are processed for their hide and meat, which compensates the trappers, though some may be sold to alligator farms or zoos.

The Alexander Springs swim area remains closed pending the FWC's investigation, but the USFS anticipates reopening it soon. This incident follows another alligator removal at the same location last week, the first such occurrence in Ocala National Forest this year. This highlights the increased activity of reptiles, including alligators, during the hot summer months, particularly during nesting season in July. The USFS and FWC advise caution near water and recommend seeking immediate medical care after an alligator bite due to potential bacterial risks.

With an estimated 1.3 million alligators across Florida, the FWC emphasizes the potential presence of alligators in any body of water. They recommend avoiding swimming during dawn and dusk when alligators are most active, maintaining a safe distance, and refraining from feeding them. Sightings of potentially dangerous alligators should be reported to the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program hotline.