OVIDEO, Fla. — City officials in Oviedo issued a safety alert for visitors to Shane Kelly Park after a large alligator was spotted at the facility.
The warning follows a reminder that alligator mating season has begun.
The alligator was seen sunning along the shore of a pond located inside the park.
The start of mating season means the reptiles are more active than usual.
To ensure public safety, the city advised guests to keep children and pets away from the water’s edge.
Officials stated these precautions are especially important during dawn and dusk hours.
The city also issued a reminder that feeding alligators in Florida is illegal under state law.
Feeding alligators causes them to lose their natural fear of people, which can lead to dangerous behavior and public safety issues.
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