Seffner, Florida — A 9-foot, 9-inch alligator near a school bus pickup prompted a wildlife response Thursday morning.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the alligator wandered close to a school bus pickup location in the Seffner area off East Wheeler Road early Thursday.
Authorities said a nearby runner spotted the large reptile and reported it to officials, allowing deputies and wildlife personnel to respond before students arrived in the area.
A licensed trapper was called to the scene and safely removed the alligator without incident, the sheriff’s office said. No injuries were reported.
Deputies shared the incident in a social media post Thursday, noting that wildlife encounters can occur in Florida communities, particularly in areas near water or wooded habitat where alligators commonly live.
The sheriff’s office credited the runner’s quick action for helping ensure the situation was addressed quickly and safely.
East Wheeler Road remained accessible during the response, and authorities did not report any school transportation disruptions tied to the incident.
Wildlife officials routinely respond to nuisance alligator reports across Florida, especially during warmer months when reptiles are more active. Trained trappers typically relocate or manage animals that pose potential safety risks in populated areas.
Encounters like this can be especially concerning for families and students waiting at neighborhood bus stops during early morning hours.
Local officials encourage residents to report wildlife sightings that occur near homes, schools, or roadways so trained responders can safely handle the situation.
For young students and commuters gathering at early morning bus stops, quick reporting of unusual hazards can help prevent dangerous encounters.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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