An 84-year-old woman from Fort Myers Beach, Florida, and her dog survived a terrifying alligator attack last Thursday night during their usual walk near their home in Julia Mobile Home Park.
Del Boppel told NBC-2 that she had ventured closer than usual to a nearby pond when she noticed eyes staring at her from the water and immediately sensed danger. After throwing her dog, named Queen, out of harm's way, she described the reptile approaching like "a torpedo. I've never seen anything move so fast in my life. I didn't have time to think."
The alligator, approximately 7 feet (2.13 meters) long, lunged at Boppel. In a desperate act, she managed to hit the animal in the face, although it bit her, causing injuries to her leg and hands before fleeing. Despite her injuries, Boppel considers herself lucky to have saved both herself and her dog, she told NBC-2.
Boppel mentioned that she has repeatedly filed complaints about the presence of large alligators in her community, but has received no response from local authorities. Despite the ordeal, she remains optimistic, stating that once she recovers, she will return home to be with her dog, Queen, NBC-2 reported.
According to a report by CNN, serious injuries related to alligators are rare in Florida. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission noted that between 2004 and 2022, the state recorded nearly 190 alligator attacks, 12 of which were fatal.
In March, a 68-year-old man was bitten by a crocodile after his boat capsized, causing him to fall into the water at a marina in Everglades National Park, Florida. The reptile attack happened around 4:43 PM at Flamingo Marina in the Everglades, resulting in a laceration on the man's leg that required immediate medical attention, the National Park Service (NPS) reported in a statement.
The American crocodile is a federally threatened species and closely resembles the American alligator. Crocodiles have narrower, more triangular heads and often prefer coastal, brackish, and saltwater environments, whereas alligators are darker, have broader snouts, and are typically found in freshwater.
Alligator Attacks in Florida: What You Need to Know
Given the recent alligator attack in Fort Myers Beach, many are curious about the frequency and severity of such incidents in Florida. Here are some common questions and answers to help you understand the situation better.
How common are alligator attacks in Florida?
Serious alligator attacks are relatively rare in Florida. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recorded nearly 190 attacks between 2004 and 2022, with 12 being fatal.
What should you do if you encounter an alligator?
If you encounter an alligator, it is crucial to remain calm and slowly back away. Avoid making sudden movements and do not approach or provoke the animal.
Are there differences between alligators and crocodiles?
Yes, there are differences. Crocodiles have narrower, more triangular heads and prefer coastal, brackish, and saltwater environments. Alligators are darker, have broader snouts, and are typically found in freshwater habitats.