Alligator Sighting on Tybee Island

Savannah Officials Issue Warning to Beachgoers

Residents Urged to Stay Vigilant Amid Increased Alligator Activity

Tybee Island, GA - Authorities in Savannah are urging beachgoers to exercise caution after an alligator was spotted near the Tybee Island Pier on Sunday. The sighting prompted officials to issue a warning, reminding residents and visitors to be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid potential encounters with alligators.

According to the Savannah-Chatham County Animal Control, the alligator measured approximately 6 feet in length. Officials believe it may have wandered from its natural habitat due to heavy rainfall and flooding in the area. They are currently searching for the alligator and have deployed traps in an attempt to capture it.

Alligator sightings are not uncommon in coastal Georgia, but they are typically more prevalent during the summer months when alligators are more active. In recent weeks, several alligator sightings have been reported in the Savannah area, including one near a popular boat ramp.

Safety Tips for Beachgoers:

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• Be aware of your surroundings and look for alligators in the water and on land.
• Keep a safe distance from alligators and never approach or feed them.
• Supervise children closely when swimming or playing near water bodies.
• Do not swim in areas where alligators have been spotted.
• Report any alligator sightings to the Savannah-Chatham County Animal Control at (912) 651-6516.

Officials emphasize that alligators are generally not aggressive towards humans unless they feel threatened or their territory is invaded. However, it is crucial to take precautions and follow safety guidelines to minimize the risk of encounters.

The Savannah-Chatham County Animal Control is working closely with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to monitor alligator activity in the area and take appropriate actions to ensure public safety.

Residents and visitors are advised to stay informed about alligator safety and to follow the guidelines provided by wildlife officials. By taking these precautions, we can minimize the potential for human-alligator interactions and enjoy our coastal environment safely.