Wildlife can become more visible after a major storm, particularly in flooded areas, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is urging people to keep their distance and give animals space.
Alligators and snakes may be seen more often after storms. The FWC says people should stay away from them. Concerns involving an alligator can be reported to the Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286.
Rough weather can also strand manatees or wash sea turtle hatchlings ashore. People should call the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922 to report a stranded, injured or dead manatee, as well as a hatchling tangled in seaweed or found in an unusual location.
For bears, the agency advises securing food that could attract them. Spoiled food in storm debris should be kept separate from other debris. Bear conflicts can be reported to FWC regional offices during business hours or to the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922 after hours.
