Photo: Darrien Land / 500px / Getty Images
Jensen Beach, FL - A seven-foot alligator was safely removed from a Jensen Beach backyard pool over the weekend, marking the second such incident that day as authorities warn of increased alligator activity during mating season.
On Saturday, deputies from the Martin County Sheriff's Office responded to a call from the Pinecrest Lakes neighborhood reporting an uninvited reptilian guest in a backyard pool.
Upon arrival, Deputy Dawn Ferris and Sergeant Crystal Nash found a seven-foot alligator resting at the bottom of the pool, seemingly undisturbed by the presence of humans.
Professional trapper Matt Hines was summoned to assist with the removal.
Employing a neck hook, Hines engaged the alligator, which reacted with a vigorous "death roll," a natural defense mechanism, before being safely extracted from the pool.
This incident marked the second alligator intrusion into a residential pool in the area that day, highlighting the increased activity of alligators during their mating season, which spans from April through June.
During this period, alligators are known to traverse into unfamiliar territories, including fenced residential areas, in search of mates.
Authorities believe the alligator accessed the pool by either climbing over or navigating under the property's fencing.
The Martin County Sheriff's Office has issued a reminder to residents to exercise caution and avoid attempting to remove alligators without professional assistance, emphasizing the potential dangers involved .
Residents are advised to remain vigilant during the mating season and to contact wildlife professionals if they encounter an alligator in an unexpected location