For years, alligators and sharks have shown little mercy on Florida's human inhabitants and visitors. Countless attacks on people by sharp-toothed critters have given Florida a reputation as a somewhat dangerous place. Lately, however, in an unprecedented alliance with state tourism officials, sharks and alligators have agreed to "tone things down a bit".
Although at first the agreement, which was actually initiated by the Florida State Realtor's Association in response lagging home sales, was met with suspicion and distrust. However, in the last few days the prehistoric predators have shown that they are commited to honoring the pact.
At New Smyrna Beach this weekend, the shark attacks can best be described as "gentle". Yesterday, a shark attacked a 21 year old surfer, and instead of creating a big national incident by ripping the guy's legs off "California style", the shark just nipped the man's foot and then let go, causing only minimal injury. The man was able to drive himself to the hospital for treatment. And today's attack on a 24 year old surfer was also quite non-injurious. Capt. Jack Driskell, with the Volusia County Beach Patrol, reported that "the attack was not life threatening, or even limb threatening".
New Smyrna Beach sharks go easy on surfers
Also, yesterday in Tampa, the alligator who attacked 62 year old Dwight Monreal was quite forgiving. Dwight, who was swimming in a golf course pond, was released by his 10-12 foot attacker with all limbs intact, and only a few puncture marks on his left arm.
Alligator attack not so bad
State tourism officials reported that they are "quite pleased" with the arrangement. They warned, however, that these acts of kindness by the normally violent, deadly animals may not go on forever. "We have to remember" said chief negotiator Frank Wilby, "that our agreement with the animals is not set in stone. No timelines were discussed, and geographic boundaries are somewhat fuzzy."
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