Alligator Won't Be Removed From Pond In Baldwin Park

Some Baldwin Park residents were a bit surprised to run across a new neighbor that's lounging in the sun near a popular trail. An alligator has set up camp in a BP retention pond between a path that walkers and joggers use and a trail that's under construction.

Experts said the mid-sized alligator could be unpredictable. The gator is five to six feet long, maybe 4 years old, and has made a home in Baldwin Park.

"I'm a little bit scared but, at same time, alligators are all over Orlando, but you just have to watch where you're going," said resident Ben Cole.

Trapper James Burkshire doesn't believe the alligator is a nuisance, probably has not been fed by passersby and probably wouldn't strike out.

"I don't want to say yes and I don't want to say no. It is a wild animal," he said.

The gator is hanging out along a popular walking and jogging trail. There's plenty of opportunity for things to get ugly.

"There are a lot of people who have dogs that walk everyday," Cole said.

"When dogs are in their atmosphere, these animals are hungry or whatever, it is an easy opportunity with a dog swimming in the area. You always want to keep your dogs as far away from water as possible," Burkshire said.

Burkshire gives two reasons alligators attack: when they're fed by humans and when they're tormented. Cole thinks common sense will keep him safe

"Not to go near him, not to feed him," he said.

An alligator is considered a nuisance by Florida Fish and Wildlife when it is at least four feet in length, poses a threat to people, pets and property and does not retreat when approached.