‘Notice anything odd?’: 7-foot gator found lounging inside North Port garage

Video above: Sneaky alligator caught hiding under shopping cart at Publix

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Alligators and bears, oh my!

A few days after the North Port Police Department warned residents to stay vigilant due to a black bear sighting , authorities are now urging homeowners to be mindful of wandering gators.

The reminder comes after a 7-foot alligator “moseyed on up” into a garage in the Gran Paradiso neighborhood.

“Notice anything odd? the police department said . “It’s Florida and it’s that time of the year. Be sure to be cautious around your property & don’t leave doors open. Never know what could come in or what could get out!”

The gator was found lounging between a step stool and a bicycle.

The FWC shared the following tips to ensure Floridians’ and visitors safety around alligators:

• Keep a safe distance if you see an alligator. If someone is concerned about an alligator, they should call the FWC’s Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286.
• Keep pets on a leash and away from the water’s edge.
• Only swim in designated swimming areas during daylight hours without your pet as alligators are most active between dusk and dawn.
• Never feed an alligator — it is illegal and dangerous.

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