Alligator Update
This is from the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge.....Right now the law states that a nuisance animal is one that is threatening the safety of a person, pet, or damaging property. Right now there is an option of relocation, but this will end on July 1st. The law will be changing July 1st...any animal deemed a nuisance, which means a mere phone call from a citizen, will be euthanized. A south Florida group is "up in arms" because a disoriented bobcat found in a shopping area parking lot was put down. A biologist should have been called to evaluate the animal instead of it just being killed. So, when you see a wild animal that is not threatening, call the Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge 850.650.1880..... not the Sherrif, Fish and Wildlife or animal control. The Emerald Coast Wildlife Refuge does an awesome job of rescuing, rehabilitating and relocating animals as well as coordinating with Fish and Wildlife and National Marine Organizations. This non profit organization receives no state funding and they are always in need of donations.
The alligator, that was found this week on the beach, was deemed a nuisance because of its size, 9 feet long. Trappers will relocate alligators under 4 feet. Florida Fish and Wildlife contracted with the trapper to take the animal. Trappers are not paid to capture an animal. If the animal cannot be relocated, the trapper receives the animal as compensation. He can then sell the hide and meat.
