Alligator Attack On Cow Prompts Closure Of Central FL Conservation Area

EUSTIS, FL — A central Florida conservation area remains closed after an alligator attacked a cow there on Sunday, Lake County officials said in a news release.

The gator tried to pull the cow into the water at the Pine Meadows Conservation Area in Eustis, prompting a response from local law enforcement and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

The cow was severely injured during the attack and had to be humanely euthanized, officials said. An uninjured calf was brought to the Lake County Animal Shelter.

FWC officers were unable to find the gator, the release said.

Traps have been set in the area and the agency will continue to try to capture the animal throughout the week.

The conservation area will be closed until the gator is found and removed.

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There were no additional details about the size of the alligator or the exact location of the attack within the conservation area.

The attack came several weeks into alligator mating season in Florida. Courtship begins in April, followed by peak mating activity in May and June.

During this period, gators are more active, making it especially important for residents and visitors to stay alert near water, officials said.

The county offered safety reminders for people spending time outdoors near lakes, ponds and shorelines.

Residents and visitors should swim only in designated areas during daylight hours, never approach or feed an alligator, and keep pets on a leash and away from shorelines, officials said.