A Belle Isle resident got the shock of their spring cleaning late last week when they spotted an alligator lazily doing laps in their backyard pool. Belle Isle police showed up quickly, and a traffic-and-marine officer wrangled the gator before moving it away from nearby homes. No one was injured, and the animal was safely relocated.
According to WFTV, Belle Isle Police Department Traffic and Marine Officer Kimberlin responded to the call, secured the alligator, and relocated it away from the neighborhood. Police took the opportunity to remind residents to stay alert and always check the water before jumping in, especially when a backyard pool sits close to lakes, canals, or other spots wildlife can reach.
Mating Season Means More Sightings
Wildlife officials say alligator mating season typically runs from May through June, which leaves adult gators more active and more likely to wander into residential ponds, storm drains, and pools. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission warns residents never to feed alligators, to keep pets leashed and close when near the water, and to call the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program hotline at 866‑FWC‑GATOR (866‑392‑4286) if a gator appears to be a threat.
Where You're Likely To See One
The Belle Isle pool encounter is one of several Central Florida run-ins this spring as alligators move between waterways during the breeding period. As detailed in gators crash Orlando yards, local stations and agencies have reported reptiles turning up in yards, parking lots, and apartment complexes as mating season heats up.
If You Spot A Gator
If you find an alligator in your pool, officials say the game plan is simple: keep people and pets away and call your local police for immediate help. For nuisance removals, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program hotline (866‑FWC‑GATOR) connects residents with licensed trappers who can handle the animal safely. The City of Belle Isle lists police contact information and local resources for residents with safety concerns.
