LOS FRESNOS, Texas — A 10-foot American alligator found in a residential swimming pool in Los Fresnos was safely captured and relocated by a licensed nuisance-alligator trapper.
The animal was discovered July 28 at a family home. No injuries were reported, but the encounter raised concerns about people and pets using pools, resacas and canals in areas where alligators may be present.
Jacob Reinbolt, an alligator specialist with the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary, removed the animal. He said it may have entered the pool from a nearby waterway while searching for territory.
Reinbolt estimated the alligator was a mature adult, possibly in its 30s or 40s. The animal measured about 10 feet despite missing several inches from the end of its tail.
Alligators are native to Texas and can inhabit resacas, canals and other waterways throughout Cameron County. Wildlife specialists advise residents to keep children and pets away from the water’s edge, especially around dawn, dusk and nighttime.
People who encounter an alligator should remain at a safe distance and should never feed it. Feeding can cause alligators to associate people with food and increase the likelihood of dangerous encounters.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department guidance says nuisance-alligator sightings can be reported at 512-389-4848 so officials can determine whether a licensed trapper should respond.
Sources: ValleyCentral; MySA; Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
