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Wildlife Conservation Warns Floridians Not to Attempt Wildlife Rescues Amid Flooding

Last Updated: August 25, 2008 Related resource areas: Wildlife Damage Management


The FWC has noted reports of alligators and snakes swimming around in flooded neighborhoods. Officials said they expect the animals to return to their natural habitats once water recedes back to normal levels. Other animals, such as young rabbits, raccoons and opossums, also are being scattered by flooding, and the FWC is urging residents and visitors not to attempt to rescue them, because the animals are stressed and are likely to bite or scratch would-be rescuers.

Released August 22, 2008

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is warning Floridians not to attempt to rescue wild animals or interact with wildlife in the wake of Tropical Storm Fay.

The FWC has noted reports of alligators and snakes swimming around in flooded neighborhoods. Officials said they expect the animals to return to their natural habitats once water recedes back to normal levels.

Other animals, such as young rabbits, raccoons and opossums, also are being scattered by flooding, and the FWC is urging residents and visitors not to attempt to rescue them, because the animals are stressed and are likely to bite or scratch would-be rescuers.

Although the storm may claim some individual animals, Florida’s wildlife has adapted over time to extreme weather, and the wildlife populations will recover.

Also, the FWC is echoing a caution from state health officials that people must assume that all standing water is contaminated with lawn-and-garden chemicals and other toxic substances.

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http://myfwc.com/whatsnew/08/statewide/News_08_X_StormFay_DontRescue.htm

Contact: Henry Cabbage, 850-488-8843


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