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Fire Rescue Saves Child After Alligator Bite in Weeki Wachee

9/9/2026

Summary

Fire Rescue Rescues Child

Hernando County Fire Rescue rescued a child bitten by a 9- to 12-foot alligator in Weeki Wachee Preserve.
The bite caused puncture wounds to the child’s arm and leg, which were not life-threatening.
Paramedics air-lifted the victim to Bayonet Point Hospital for further treatment.
The investigation prompted sheriffs to warn visitors to avoid prohibited swimming areas.

Summary

Alligator Captures Python

A massive alligator was captured holding a large Burmese python, showing direct predator-prey interaction.
Experts estimate over one million Burmese pythons now inhabit southern Florida, decimating more than 90% of small game.
Pythons are eliminating raccoons, opossums, and wading birds that serve as essential food for alligators.
Adult alligators have been observed preying on juvenile pythons, while giant pythons can swallow smaller alligators whole.

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Fire Rescue Rescues Child

Hernando County Fire Rescue rescued a child bitten by a 9- to 12-foot alligator in Weeki Wachee Preserve.
The bite caused puncture wounds to the child’s arm and leg, which were not life-threatening.
Paramedics air-lifted the victim to Bayonet Point Hospital for further treatment.
The investigation prompted sheriffs to warn visitors to avoid prohibited swimming areas.

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