Authorities in Livingston Parish are cautioning boaters and bathers in the local waters about the dangers of alligators following an attack on a 6-year-old boy over the weekend. Livingston Parish Sheriff's deputies say the boy and his family were enjoying time on Lake Maurepas on Sunday when the attack occurred.

According to a story published by WAFB Television and reporter Chris Rosato, the boy and his family had stopped for a swim at a sandbar near the Tickfaw River. The boy's mother said her son was in the water when she heard him scream. The young man's father lifted him into the family boat and that's when they realized there was a 'gator nearby.

Fortunately, the family was well prepared for an emergency. They quickly applied first aid to the young man's foot. Other family members pinned the area so they could make a report to State Wildlife authorities.

Drew Landry 514 via YouTube
Drew Landry 514 via YouTube
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According to the WAFB report, the boy was bitten on the foot. He was quickly taken to a local hospital for further treatment. From what we understand, Gavin, the young man who was bitten is recovering nicely at his home.

However, the attack did garner the attention of the Livingston Parish Fire Protection District #2. They made a Facebook post on Sunday following the attack.  The post warned boaters of the dangers of feeding alligators.

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It's a sobering reminder that alligators are wild animals and should not be fed by people. Authorities speculate that some boaters in the area have been feeding the animals and now when the alligators see boats in the water they are becoming conditioned to look for a free handout.

Louisiana Department of Wildlife officials remind you that Louisiana waters are home to many different species of plants and animals, some of those species can injure or kill you if you're not cognizant of your surroundings.

LDWF encourages you to be vigilant in and around our lakes, bayous, marshes, and wetlands and to always have proper first aid equipment available should an emergency situation arise.

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