Family discovers alligator swimming near Fort Myers Beach

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MuTc14HB_NE

A family visiting Fort Myers Beach spotted an alligator swimming near the shore, which made for a startling tourist sight even though wildlife officials say it’s not especially unusual in the Gulf. In the report, the family said they were from Iowa and had never seen anything like it, while experts advised keeping a safe distance from any wild animal.

What happened

The alligator was seen bobbing in the water close to the beach, then drifting near the sand as waves rolled in. One witness described it as “unreal,” while another longtime visitor said she had never seen one there before.

Why it matters

Alligators are mainly freshwater animals, but they can swim in saltwater and sometimes show up near beaches or coastal waterways. Officials say the safest response is simple: don’t approach, feed, or try to handle it.