INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — An alligator that stopped by for a visit in the Timber Ridge community of S. Centre Court S.W. in Vero Beach received an eviction notice Tuesday.
Authorities arrived at the scene and called a contracted Florida Wildlife Commission trapper to remove the 6- to 8-foot long alligator.
Resident Mary Halverson reported the gator shortly before 9 a.m. Though the porches are surrounded by a privacy fence, it is believed the alligator was able to get in under the fence.
The reptile was aggressive toward the officers in what would be a typical reaction for an alligator that feels threatened due to being in such a confined space, the Sheriff’s Office said.
Patrol Deputy Joe Karman and Agricultural Deputy John McNeal were able to secure the alligator through the use of a catch pole. While McNeal held the animal still, Karman was able to use duct tape to keep its mouth closed.
A contract trapper from the Florida Wildlife Commission came to retrieve the alligator.
