On social media, many viewers were stunned after a viral video captured a giant alligator found in a kitchen following home flooding from the hurricane.
On TikTok, the video showed the shocking moment when an alligator was discovered in a flooded kitchen after Hurricane Milton, gaining widespread attention.
Hurricane Milton’s impact on wildlife displacement
Hurricane Milton wreaked havoc across Florida, displacing both people and animals. Experts have warned about the dangers of wildlife entering homes due to the flooding and destruction. The hurricane’s impact has driven creatures such as alligators, snakes, and other wildlife into residential areas.
Residents were shocked after finding an alligator in their kitchen.
In one startling incident, a family returned to their flooded home to find a large alligator in their kitchen. The moment was captured in a viral TikTok video.
On Tiktok platform, a user, who goes by @wooglobe shared a video showed alligator found in kitchen after flooding from Hurricane Milton.
The video has the caption: “When life gives you hurricanes… and a living room alligator!:’
In the footage, the alligator bared its teeth at the startled residents. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) quickly issued warnings about animals displaced by the floodwaters, including alligators, bears, and snakes.
The video sparked discussion on social media
“In the comment section, many viewers shared their shock after an alligator was found in the kitchen following flooding from Hurricane Milton.
Others mentioned that they nearly fainted upon seeing the horrifying sight.
One person said: That’s NOT a crocodile, that is an alligator. Alligators are passive, Crocodiles can be extremely aggressive.
A second wrote: it’s the calmness for me. I could never live in Florida
While a third commented: Alligators are fine. Crocodiles are something different. If that was a saltwater croc by the time you say the word “oh” you are dead.
Another added: You know it’s a alligator cuz you see it later but if it was a crocodile you’d see it in a while.
Someone else said: That Gator was like; Close that door it’s a hurricane outside.
Residents returning to unexpected visitors
As evacuation orders are lifted, more residents are returning to their homes only to discover uninvited animal guests.
The flooding has driven creatures into unusual spaces, turning homes into temporary shelters for displaced wildlife.
The FWC and experts like biologist Christopher Gillette are urging residents to stay vigilant.
Christopher Gillette, a biologist, has provided crucial advice on staying safe during and after the hurricane.
He warned residents through social media to avoid wading in floodwaters. His main concern was not just for the potential alligator encounters, but also the contamination of the water, which may be filled with human sewage.
Gillette emphasized the importance of keeping children and pets away from the water.
Alligators can stay submerged for up to six hours, making them a hidden threat in floodwaters. Despite his concern for public safety, he assured people that the gators at his Bellowing Acres Sanctuary were safe.
Besides alligators, Gillette also discussed the danger posed by displaced snakes. After the hurricane, fallen branches and debris can make it hard to spot these reptiles. Residents must be cautious when navigating through flooded areas to avoid potential snake encounters.
As Florida begins recovering from Hurricane Milton, residents need to be aware of the dangers of displaced wildlife. Alligators and other creatures are seeking refuge in homes and flooded areas.
Staying safe means avoiding floodwaters, keeping a close watch on pets and children, and staying informed on wildlife risks.
The aftermath of Hurricane Milton has shown how wildlife and nature can intersect with human lives in unexpected ways. Always exercise caution, and keep the safety of your family and pets in mind.