'I thought maybe it was the UPS guy': Florida family woken up by alligator scratching at their front door — here's how to safeguard your home from gator gatecrashers

Gators visiting Florida neighborhoods

In April, a homeowner in Lake Mary described a similar experience, per 7News, in which an eight-foot alligator came knocking on the front door.

“There is an alligator at the front door. Do not open it!” a resident is heard shouting in footage shown by 7News.

The local broadcaster reported another incident of an alligator targeting homes in a Fort Myers neighborhood. The loose gator was eventually secured and handed over to a trapper.

Florida is home to approximately 1.3 million alligators, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Alligators can be found across the state, the group says, but crocodiles can also be spotted by locals, primarily in south Florida.

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How to gator-proof your home

If you live in a place where wildlife encounters are frequent, given the potential dangers posed by large animals, you may wish to review your home insurance policy and consider additional coverage, if available. Companies typically don’t provide compensation for damage caused by small creatures, such as insects, rodents and birds, however, they may be more lenient when it comes to damage from large animals, such as deer, bears and, yes, alligators.

Beyond this, homeowners in Florida may want to gator-proof their property. Here are some measures to consider.

Wildlife removal services: In the event of an alligator sighting, it's crucial to contact the appropriate public agency or a professional wildlife removal service. The average cost for such services varies widely depending on your specific location and situation.

Alligator-resistant fencing: Installing sturdy fencing can deter alligators from entering your property. Be sure these fences are high enough they can’t be climbed, possibly with the top angled outward, and the bottom several inches underground to deter digging underneath.

Reinforced, screened lanais and patios: Enclosing outdoor spaces can provide an additional layer of protection.

Smart doorbells and motion detection cameras: These devices provide a means for monitoring your home's entrance, so like the Beck family above, you can see if that scratching at the door is a person or an alligator.

Avoid leaving pet food or garbage outside. Alligators may be drawn to food sources such as trash or pet food left outdoors. Secure all garbage in animal-resistant bins and bring pet food inside after feeding.