SARASOTA, Fla. — More than one million alligators are estimated to be swimming in Florida waters. State wildlife officials said they're especially aggressive right now.
Alligator mating season is here and one's chances of running into one are higher over the next few months.
While attacks are rare, Eric Merda of Sarasota knows the dangers all too well.
"When he snapped my arm backwards, my very first thought was there goes that arm," Merda said.
An alligator bit Merda's arm off July 2022 near Lake Manatee Fish Camp in Myakka City. After losing his right arm, Merda said he spent three and a half weeks in the hospital recovering.
10 Tampa Bay first caught up with Merda that year. He's among at least 455 known people bit by an alligator to date since 1948, according to the FWC records.
It would take time before Merda said he found someone for help and medics flew him to the hospital. Merda explained he had gotten lost and decided to swim across the lake when he spotted his van on the other side.
Merda said he was already facing challenges in his life, especially personal ones regarding his family.
"I just didn't want to deal with the pain of existence anymore," Merda said.
He vowed not to give up on his life after the near-death experience.
"He took my arm instead of my life."
Despite currently experiencing homelessness, Merda said he's currently seeking treatment and help. Now he hopes his story of perseverance helps other people in some way.
"I want to change the world for the better. I want to inspire the world," Merda said.
If you’re out in the Florida wilderness, officials advise you to avoid swampy banks where alligators like to hang out. You also may want to avoid swimming in murky water.
FWC says people should never feed alligators and keep their distance if they see one. People can also stay safe by only swimming in designated swimming areas and keeping pets away from the water and on a leash at all times when they're out.