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Alligator attack in Disneyworld reminds us of difficulties in managing human-alligator incidents
By: Martin Wingfield
Last updated: Tuesday, 19 July 2016
Posted on June 15 2016 in Birkbeck Comments
This post was contributed by Dr Simon Pooley, CWEH associate
As portrayed in numerous films, including Disney classics like The Rescuers, the American alligator (Alligator Mississippiensis) is an iconic and well known denizen of the State of Florida. It is surely difficult to visit the Sunshine State without being aware of the presence of alligators, which are effectively managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Service. However, yesterday’s attack on a two-year old visitor to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa in Orlando, Florida, is a sad reminder that coexisting with large and potentially dangerous predators brings risks and responsibilities.