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Watch: Alligator Goes for the Zoo Keeper Instead of Chicken

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Author Linnea H, BSc Sociology

Alligator Goes Zoo Keeper
Image generated using DALLE-E by Linnea for AATG.
Video by The FloridaLad via youtube

In an astonishing event captured on video, a zoo handler narrowly escapes severe injury when a 12-foot, 600-pound alligator nearly bites off his leg during a routine feeding session. The footage, a vivid reminder of the unpredictable nature of wild animals, shows the handler holding a chicken for the alligator. The situation escalates when he stumbles and falls, inadvertently becoming the target of the massive predator.

A Close Call

The video illustrates the inherent risks of interacting with wild animals, even in controlled environments like zoos. As the handler aims to feed the alligator, a misstep causes him to fall, triggering the alligator’s predatory instincts. The alligators’ swift reaction to the handlers’ vulnerability showcases their natural hunting behavior, emphasizing the line between educational demonstrations and potential danger.

Understanding Alligator Behavior

Alligators are apex predators with strong feeding responses. This incident highlights their instinctual behavior, which can quickly override any conditioning, especially when mimicking natural hunting scenarios. Despite their familiarity with human handlers, alligators can exhibit unpredictable behavior, posing risks to even the most experienced professionals.

Safety and Ethical Considerations

The near-miss underscores the need for strict safety protocols in wildlife handling to protect the handlers and the animals. It also raises ethical questions about wildlife interactions for educational purposes, stressing the importance of practices prioritizing animal well-being.

Respect and Caution Required

This harrowing encounter is a powerful lesson in the respect and caution required when dealing with wild animals. It demonstrates the unpredictable nature of such interactions and the constant risks wildlife professionals face. The miraculous outcome of this incident, with no severe injuries reported, is a testament to the handler’s quick response and the need for ongoing education and awareness in wildlife conservation efforts.

Let me know what you thought about the video of the alligator going for the zoo keeper in the comments!

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