Alligator Having “Spa Day” Swims Close to Family in Galveston An alligator was spotted in the surf on the East End of Galveston on Friday (08/22/2025). The sighting occurred in the early afternoon on the east end of the beach, a popular spot for fishing and observing wildlife. A family was in the water when a large alligator surfaced. Zach from i45NOW was on site and warned the family of the animal's presence. They were able to get out of the water quickly and safely. Josh Henderson, the city of Galveston's animal services supervisor and wildlife officer, said seeing an alligator in the Gulf or a bear on the beach is not uncommon. “Freshwater alligators get these parasites on their skin, and while they don't like saltwater, they can stand it better than those parasites,” Henderson said. “After a few hours in the saltwater, those parasites fall off kind of like barnacles. “So the gator is having a little spa day.” While East Beach is known for its raccoons and other animals, alligators are not uncommon on the island and are also known to occasionally enter saltwater. This is a behavior they sometimes exhibit to rid themselves of freshwater parasites. Visitors are advised to give wildlife distance and not approach them. Cristian, who didn’t want to share his last name, evacuated his family from the water after being alerted of the alligator. Despite the close encounter, alligators won’t scare Christian away from the island. He said “That’s the reason for us coming to Galveston to enjoy the beach and look at the boats, it’s real beautiful I recommend to come to Galveston.”

Posted by i45NOW Zach at 2025-08-22 21:10:05 UTC