Environmental Health & Safety

Our campus is home to beautiful natural surroundings—and occasionally, some incredible Florida wildlife. Sightings of alligators, bobcats, snakes, bears, and even panthers, though rare, remind us we share this space with wildlife.

If you’re lucky enough to spot one of these animals, take it as a rare gift from nature—but let’s keep them, and ourselves, safe by acting wisely:

🐾 Keep your distance – For your safety and the animal’s, observe from afar. Stay back, face the animal, and back away slowly. Stop moving if it appears to aggravate the animal.
🚫 Do not approach or feed – Never try to touch, corner, or provoke animals.
📞 Report sightings – Call University Police at 239-590-1900 if the animal seems injured, trapped, or poses a danger.
🌳 Stay alert near water/woods – These are natural wildlife habitats.
🗑️ Secure trash/food – Help prevent unwanted visits. Feeding wildlife is not allowed.

Let’s admire from afar and help keep our campus—and its wild visitors—safe.

For non-urgent wildlife questions or sightings, contact EH&S at 239-590-1414.