As central Florida recovers from the devastation caused by Hurricane Milton, the storm surge has displaced thousands of residents as well as dangerous wildlife.
The Category 3 hurricane made landfall just north of Tampa, claiming at least 16 lives and leaving 2 million people without power. Alongside rescue efforts and cleanup, residents are encountering wildlife, particularly alligators, in unexpected places.
Alligator sightings have heightened concerns, with one spotted on a porch in Tampa and another lunging at a car in flooded North Fort Myers.
Local authorities warn of post-storm dangers, including floodwaters filled with debris, downed power lines, and wildlife.
Chris Gillette, a wildlife rehabilitator, emphasized that while alligators generally avoid humans, residents should avoid flooded areas where they may be present. The flooding allows alligators to move into suburban areas, bypassing usual barriers like fences.
Frank Mazzotti, a wildlife expert from the University of Florida, noted that while flooding forces animals to seek higher ground, his research during Hurricane Irma indicated that alligators are largely unaffected by storms.
