When the HOA gets information about an alligator presence in Lakes at Boca Raton, the Property Manager calls a certified trapper who has a contractual relationship with the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program operated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Nuisance alligators captured by such trappers are killed for their hide and meat, the sale of which is how trappers make their living.  The term “nuisance alligator” is defined as at least four feet long and which poses a threat to humans and their pets or property. 

The FWC will only remove an alligator from private property based on a complaint from someone in authority, which is why alligators spotted in our lakes need to be handled by the HOA.

If there is an alligator on your own property rather than the HOA’s Common Area, you can call 866-FWC-GATOR to request its removal.

The longest alligator ever captured in Florida was 14 feet 3 ½ inches and the heaviest one was 1,043 pounds.

Trappers will not trap alligators under four feet in length, as they are not considered a threat to people or pets.

Two trappers were in the Lakes on Tuesday, July 5 in response to numerous gator sightings here in recent days.  No word as yet on the outcome.