Woman Hospitalized After Being Bitten by Alligator While Kayaking in Florida: Reports

Mar. 15, 2025

An alligator floats in a creek in Florida.Photo:STAN HONDA/AFP via Getty

STAN HONDA/AFP via Getty

The unidentified victim was “bitten on the elbow” while kayaking at the Tiger Creek reserve in Polk County on Monday, March 3, local media outletsFox 13 Tampa BayandBay News 9reported.

“When they try to move her arm to put the thing on, she’s screaming so she’s in too much pain to get the bandage on," the caller added.

According to reports, the FWC and Polk County Fire Rescue responded to the location and a nuisance alligator trapper was “dispatched to remove the alligator."

There have been more than 450 alligator bites on people in the state, 30 of which were fatal, according torecordsfrom the FWC. The commission began recording alligator attacks in 1948.

The area where the alligator attack reportedly took place.WPLG Local 10/Youtube

WPLG Local 10/Youtube

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The FWC provides safety advice for those living with alligators in Florida.

The commission states on itswebsitethat residents should “never feed an alligator and keep your distance. Swim only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours. And keep pets on a leash and away from the water.”

The FWC urges anyone who is confronted with or concerned about an alligator to call the toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286. A contracted nuisance alligator trapper will then be sent out to help.

PEOPLE has reached out to the FWC and PCFR for comment.

source: people.com