A massive oak tree that stood at the center of the lagoon at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm was toppled by a lightning strike during a storm Wednesday night — but remarkably, no alligators or exhibits were harmed.
The tree, a longtime feature of the park’s landscape, appeared to have suffered a direct hit and fell overnight.
Park officials said it was a “miracle” that none of the dozens of alligators that inhabit the lagoon were injured by the falling tree.
“It’s a miracle no alligators were hurt,” the park wrote on Facebook “No fences or glass were damaged either.”
The tree’s collapse has prompted temporary changes to the park’s programming and operations.
Feeding shows will be moved to the Swamp exhibit, while “Realm of the Alligator” presentations will take place in the Theater until further notice, according to park staff.
In addition, one of the park’s popular zipline attractions is now partially closed. The Sepik River course remains open, but the longer Nile River course is shut down while arborists assess the condition of surrounding trees and ensure guest safety.
The Alligator Farm, which has operated in St. Augustine since 1893, is one of Florida’s oldest continuously running attractions and is home to hundreds of alligators, crocodiles, and other exotic wildlife. The Lagoon area is one of the park’s main features, where visitors can view massive reptiles in a naturalistic setting.
