Alligator bites snorkeler's head

Apopka, Florida- (AP) -- A 30-year-old Apopka man received 33 stitches in his head after an alligator bit him while he was snorkeling alone, officials said. Michael A. Diaz Jr. was snorkeling in Rock Springs Run at Kelly Park on Thursday when he was attacked from behind, said a spokeswoman for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "He reached back, grabbed the alligator and pushed him away." Diaz described it as a 3- to 4-foot alligator.

Carol Clark, a spokeswoman for Orange County Parks and Recreation, said Friday that trappers are continuing to try to find the alligator and the swimming area will remain closed until it can be caught. About 500 to 600 people visited the park Thursday, Matt Suedmeyer, assistant manager for Orange County Parks and Recreation, said. With the ongoing drought, many larger alligators have pushed smaller ones out of their territory. Activity is heightened during mating season as well.