Alligator Bites Off Teens Arm

CNN Wire

A South Florida teen is recovering after an alligator took off part of his right arm.  

It happened Monday as the 17-year-old was swimming with friends in the Caloosahatchee River in Moore Haven. The teen was taken to the hospital as trappers began a three-hour search for the alligator and the boy’s missing arm.  

Wildlife officials say there’s a simple explanation for the untimely attack.  

“It’s just after mating season, eggs are already laid, but the gators are still very active,” said Captain Jeff Ardelean of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation. “Any type of commotion on the water is potential food in their eyes.”

Friends of the victim say they don’t expect the attack to keep any of them out of the water.