An image of a sign which shows an image of an alligator and reads "Beware of Alligator."

TAMPA – Alligators in Florida are beginning to mate as the weather warms.

Male alligators start attracting females in April and mate from May through June. Gators tend to be more visible, active, and aggressive during this period, according to FWC officials. The gators are also expected to have an increased prey drive.

“There’s zero panic because they’re scared of us much more than… well I was going to say more than we’re scared of them, but it depends on the person you’re talking to,” said Tampa resident Paul Tate.

FWC officials warn against feeding alligators or allowing pets near them.

The alligators are mostly active at night but can be active during the day.

Florida toll relief program extended for second year

Governor Ron DeSantis announced 450 million dollars in toll relief for Florida drivers.

The program uses a toll credit in order to cut toll rates in half for frequent commuters. It only applies to cars and light trucks with a SunPass or similar device.

DeSantis says last year’s breaks created 400 dollars in savings for each person.

Credits
Anchor: Abby Papasodero, Dawson Cordova
Producer: Ari Angelo
Reporters: Paula Sanchez
Social Media: Victoria Harris
Technical Director: Melissa Baldelomar
Teleprompter: Samantha Allen
Graphics: Victoria Harris
Video Editor: Aviva Kram
Editor-in-Training: Melissa Baldelomar
Cameras: Jimmy Rosilio
Web Editor: Josh Skinner
Graduate Assistant: McKenzie Muskett
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Stephanie Anderson