Gator spotted on playground at St. Johns County school

ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – An alligator was spotted on the playground at Valley Ridge Academy in St. Johns County on Sunday. 

People posted photos to Facebook when they saw the gator trying to attend school over Labor Day weekend. 

RELATED: Alligator attacks on rise in Florida, study says

"Just an alligator on the school playground. #FloridaLife. Yes, people are calling the school, animal control, etc.," Adam S. Drake posted.

It could be coincidental, but News4Jax saw a gator swimming in the pond Monday evening across from Valley Ridge Elementary. A resident shared the following photo of the gator they too saw in the pond.

It wasn't clear if the gator sightings were of the same gator.

If you run into an alligator, Florida wildlife officer said you should keep a safe distance, because alligators can move quickly. They also urge you to swim only in designated swimming areas when the sun is out and if your pets are outside, make sure they stay at least 10 feet away from the edge of the water. 

Another important thing to keep in mind is that it is illegal to feed an alligator.

See an alligator you think could be dangerous? Call the Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286).


About the Authors

Corley Peel is a Texas native and Texas Tech graduate who covered big stories in Joplin, Missouri, Tulsa, Oklahoma and Jacksonville, Florida before returning to the Lone Star State. When not reporting, Corley enjoys hot yoga, Tech Football, and finding the best tacos in town.

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