Huge Alligator Turns Up in Naples Resident's Backyard Pool

A Naples family got an unexpected visitor this week when a large alligator was discovered swimming in their backyard pool, a dramatic reminder of how local wildlife often intersects with residential life in Southwest Florida. According to local news reports, the alligator was found in the pool area of a home in Collier County, startling the homeowners and prompting an emergency response.

Officials say the alligator measured nearly 8 feet long, a size consistent with the large reptiles that are native to the region’s wetlands, canals, and conservation lands. Residents in the area captured images on social media showing the reptile leisurely navigating the water before wildlife professionals were called to handle the situation.

Collier County’s landscape, with its proximity to extensive natural areas like Big Cypress National Preserve and other wetlands, means encounters with alligators aren’t uncommon. These animals regularly inhabit freshwater environments and sometimes venture into residential spaces, particularly during the cooler months when water temperatures in pools can be more attractive than canals or lakes.

Local animal control and wildlife officials responded to the scene after the family reported the alligator. According to the report, responders worked to safely remove the animal from the pool and transport it to a suitable natural habitat away from homes. Wildlife removal professionals are trained to handle large reptiles and follow protocols designed to protect both people and animals during these encounters.

Residents living near lakes, canals, or conservation areas are routinely reminded that Florida’s native alligator population is robust and widespread. Alligators can travel significant distances over land, especially at night, in search of food or new territory. While most alligators avoid human interaction, large individuals can occasionally appear in unexpected places, including fenced yards or community ponds.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) encourages homeowners to maintain a safe distance if they see an alligator and to report the sighting to authorities rather than attempting to handle the situation themselves. FWC and county wildlife officers have the expertise to assess each situation and determine the best course of action.

Incidents like this often generate buzz in local neighborhoods, where social media posts show residents both astonished and amused by the presence of such a large animal in a familiar setting. While the frequency of sightings varies, this encounter highlights that even well-kept backyards are not immune to visits from Florida’s iconic wildlife.

Homeowners with swimming pools near natural areas are encouraged to remain vigilant, especially during dawn and dusk when alligators are most active. Keeping pets on leashes, removing attractants like pet food outside, and installing barriers can all help reduce the likelihood of wildlife entering living spaces.

Ultimately, encounters between humans and native wildlife are part of life in Collier County. When they involve large animals like this alligator, proper reporting and professional response ensure the safety of residents and respect for the animals that share the region’s ecosystems.