Things got strange after a police officer on foot patrol discovered an enormous alligator snoozing on one of Florida’s Gulf Coast beaches.
He made the discovery while on routine beach patrol on Treasure Island, a barrier island about 28 miles southwest of Tampa.
The identity of the officer was not released, but the photo shows he was prepared to challenge an alligator nearly twice his size.
Yet the gator didn’t react when the officer tapped its tail.
Why?
Because the gator wasn’t real, something you can see in the photo the police provided.
“Look at the size of that gator one of our officers tried rounding up on Treasure Island Beach last night!” said the Facebook page of the Treasure Island Police Department about the alligator made of sand.
According to officials, the officer leveled the creation once he saw it was only sand to protect both people and wildlife.
In Florida, where sea turtles typically lay their eggs in May, sand sculptures can get in the way of the turtles’ ability to excavate their nests.
“We love the talented people creating works of art in the sand, but with it being turtle nesting season, remember to flatten sandcastles/sculptures before you leave. The sea turtles will thank you,” said the police department.
