© 2024 WGCU News
PBS and NPR for Southwest Florida
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Lee County deputy wrangles large eastern diamondback at Bonita National residence

Special to WGCU Public Media
Lee County Sheriff's Office Deputy Jim VanPelt, a licensed large-constrictor contractor, used his training and experience to recently wrangle a large rattler at a home in Bonita National.

Lee County is home to some amazing, yet dangerous, wildlife species.

Overnight, deputies from the Lee County Sheriff's Office South District received a call in reference to a large eastern diamondback rattlesnake near a home at Bonita National.

Deputy Jim VanPelt, who is licensed through the Florida Wildlife Commission as a large-constrictor contractor, used his training and experience to wrangle this large rattler using the proper equipment.

After VanPelt captured the venomous rattler the snake was safely relocated to a desolate area.

The Sheriff's Office reminds Southwest Florida residents that if you encounter a venomous animal, do not approach and contact a licensed professional for removal.

While Deputy VanPelt was able to do this without harming the animal, not all deputies are experienced certified serpent specialists..

A video of the capture can be seen here.

WGCU is your trusted source for news and information in Southwest Florida. We are a nonprofit public service, and your support is more critical than ever. Keep public media strong and donate now. Thank you.