A child was hospitalized after they were bitten by an alligator while swimming in Florida’s Weeki Wachee Preserve, authorities said.
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The incident happened Monday at the preserve in Spring Hill, Hernando County Sheriff’s Office officials said.
After the child was bitten, they became isolated on a sandbar with other juveniles and were rescued by Hernando County Fire Rescue crews on an airboat.
The child suffered puncture injuries to the arm and leg and was taken to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries, officials said.
The alligator was estimated to be between 9 and 12 feet long.
A licensed wildlife trapper responded to the area and placed traps for the alligator, officials said.
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Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers also responded to investigate what the sheriff’s office called a swimming violation.
The preserve is known for its Florida black bear population, and no swimming is allowed.
“For your safety, please use extreme caution around waterways and follow all posted rules and restrictions. Do not swim in areas where swimming is prohibited,” the sheriff’s office said.
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