Shoppers at the Wal-Mart in Apopka, Florida Sunday at around midnight had a new loiterer to watch out for. A six foot alligator was spotted lounging near one of the entrances. The store was kept open, but police kept shoppers away from the gator. The alligator was close enough to the entrance door to keep the door opening and closing, at first alarming customers and employees. A local trapper was called, but the alligator made it back to the wooded area behind the store without incident before the trapper arrived. While some customers were fearful, others were delighted at the gator sighting.
Alligator to be Put Down
According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, a permit has been issued for the alligator to be found and put down. An agency spokesperson says that the alligator has lost its fear of people, as shown by wandering into the parking lot, and must be put down so that it will not hurt anyone. According to locals, it is not uncommon for stores in the area to have run-ins with the local wildlife. Bears, alligators, and snakes have all been spotted recently near stores. What do you think? Should dangerous animals be put down when they wander near businesses? Is it a warning sign, or has the animal just made a wrong turn?