After a major storm rolls through the Suncoast, the cleanup begins, and so do the unexpected encounters. Flooded ditches, swollen canals, and waterlogged lots become temporary habitat for alligators and snakes, while manatees and sea turtles can end up stranded far from open water. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says the safest approach is simple: keep your distance and give every animal plenty of space.
Knowing who to call matters. For alligator concerns, the Nuisance Alligator Hotline is 866-392-4286. For stranded manatees, sea turtles, or injured wildlife, call the Wildlife Alert Hotline at (888) 404-3922. If bears are a concern in your area, secure anything that could attract them and keep spoiled food from your freezer separate from the rest of your storm debris. Report bear conflicts to your FWC regional office during business hours, or the Wildlife Alert Hotline after hours.
Storms displace people, and they displace wildlife too. A little preparation, a few saved phone numbers, and a healthy respect for the animals that share our coast can keep your cleanup safe for everyone. Which of these numbers are you saving in your phone today?
