A weekend snorkel on Rainbow River turned frightening in Dunnellon when an alligator bit a snorkeler, prompting authorities to briefly shut down a stretch of the popular waterway while they hunted for the animal. Deputies and wildlife crews later located and removed the gator, and the river section reopened Sunday. Officials have not released details about the snorkeler's injuries.
The Marion County Sheriff's Office told FOX 35 Orlando that the closure followed a report of a snorkeler being bitten and that Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission personnel and deputies then tracked down and removed the alligator from the area. County parks staff reopened the stretch of river once the animal had been taken from the scene. The sheriff’s office did not immediately identify the snorkeler or describe the severity of the injuries.
State Crews Remove Gator, Urge Caution On The Water
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission runs a statewide nuisance-alligator program and dispatches contracted trappers to remove animals that threaten public safety. The agency asks the public to report problem alligators to its Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286). More information and safety guidance are available on the FWC website, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Why Rainbow River Closures Hit Home For Locals
The Rainbow River begins at Rainbow Springs State Park and runs about 5.7 miles before joining the Withlacoochee; it is designated an Aquatic Preserve and an Outstanding Florida Water, according to the Southwest Florida Water Management District. Its clear, spring-fed channels draw tubers, snorkelers, and kayakers year-round, so any wildlife incident along the river tends to bring a fast response from agencies and brief closures to keep visitors safe.
Staying Safe Around Gators
Alligator activity tends to peak during mating season, typically May through June, which can make animals more mobile and increase the chance of encounters, as reported by WPTV. Wildlife officials say visitors should never feed or approach alligators, should closely supervise children and pets near the water, and should keep a wide distance from shorelines. For immediate concerns, the FWC asks the public to call its Nuisance Alligator Hotline or use the agency's online resources, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Marion County parks reopened the stretch of river after the animal was removed, FOX 35 Orlando reported. Park staff reminded visitors that standard river rules and posted safety guidance remain in effect at launch sites and access points. We will update this post if officials release more details about the snorkeler’s condition.
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