News Summary
Residents and golfers at Orangebrook Golf & Country Club remain on alert as a five-foot-long American crocodile has been spotted roaming the golf course. While this cold-blooded creature adds excitement for wildlife enthusiasts, it raises concerns for families and pet owners nearby. Golfers are advised to keep a safe distance from the reptile, which is generally shy, yet its presence has sparked caution among the local community.
Golf Course Encounters: Residents and Golfers Grapple with Local Crocodile Sightings
If you’re hitting the greens at Orangebrook Golf & Country Club, you might want to keep an eye out not just for the perfect swing but also for a five-foot-long American crocodile that has made the course its home over the past couple of years! That’s right — this cold-blooded critter has been seen wandering the fairways and reeling in the attention of both golfers and local residents alike.
Crocodile on the Loose
This crocodile has built quite a reputation, often spotted lounging near the third hole by the west lake, soaking up the sun, and casually slipping between different holes on the course. For wildlife enthusiasts and golf lovers, it certainly adds a dash of excitement! However, it raises eyebrows among those who frequent the nearby neighborhoods. Eyewitness accounts suggest this reptilian resident of the golf course might even take strolls along the shore, creeping closer to paths used by families and pet owners, making observations and concerns spill over into daily conversations around the neighborhood coffee shop.
A Watchful Eye
While a golf course might seem like an unusual habitat for a crocodile, it’s worth noting that these creatures are generally quite shy. Most golfers agree that if they spot the crocodile, it tends to prefer keeping its distance, darting away once people get within 100 yards. That’s certainly some good news for those focused on perfecting their game. Nevertheless, families strolling along the nearby paths have felt a little uneasy, with some choosing to keep their pets leashed and their kids close to avoid any unwanted encounters.
Guidance on Living with Local Wildlife
So, what should you do if you spot this crocodile while enjoying the greens? Wildlife experts suggest a simple rule: admire from afar and, whatever you do, don’t feed this scaly resident! In fact, keeping a safe distance from crocodiles is key, as they are classified as a threatened species. In Florida, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has noted that sightings have surged as the population of American crocodiles has bounced back from a mere few hundred in the 1970s to approximately 2,000 today.
Kenny Szuch, the director of golf at Orangebrook, has been keeping an eye on this local resident and following the advice from wildlife experts. They recommend that the crocodile should be left alone until it reaches a hefty eight feet before any action is taken for its removal. For now, the club management is keeping a watchful eye on this slippery inhabitant while ensuring safety for all guests and residents.
Keeping It Safe and Fun
Despite concerns about the crocodile wandering close to populated areas, it’s worth noting that conflicts between humans and crocodiles are incredibly rare. In fact, there have only been two documented bite incidents in the entire state. So, if you’re planning to tee off, just keep these precautionary measures in mind: enjoy the scenery, respect the crocodile’s space, and make sure to supervise little ones and pets while exploring near the water’s edge.
Conclusion
In the end, the appearance of this crocodile in a public space has generated quite the conversation among golfers and residents alike. Just remember, while you’re working on your swing or enjoying a day outside, it’s all about sharing the space and keeping those around you safe — even if our new friend is a bit scaly! So, grab those clubs, keep your distance, and enjoy the game, because whether it’s a perfect putt or a curious crocodile sighting, every day on the course is sure to bring a unique experience.
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Additional Resources
- NBC Miami: Crocodile Spotted Roaming Fairways at Hollywood Golf Course
- Wikipedia: Crocodile
- WSVN: Golfers, Residents Stunned to See Crocodile on Hollywood Golf Course
- Google Search: Crocodile Sightings Hollywood Golf Course
- Local 10: Wild Florida Wayward Croc Calls Hollywood Golf Course Home
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crocodile
- Hoodline: Hollywood Golf Course Home to Wandering Crocodile, Locals Urge Caution
- Google News: Hollywood Golf Course Crocodile
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
