Safety around Alligators in Florida!
In the wake of the unfortunate incident this past weekend involving a woman being severely injured by an alligator in the Wekiva River, we wanted to share some information on alligators and human interactions.
There is an abundant alligator population in Florida. Basically, where there is water, there is a potential for alligators. They are spotted everywhere from lakes, rivers, ditches, intercoastal waterways and even in swimming pools!
Generally alligators are not aggressive towards, and want very little to do, with humans. If they are treated with respect and people exercise common sense & good judgment, conflicts can be avoided.
Florida State law prohibits killing, feeding, harassing or possession of alligators. Feeding alligators is dangerous and illegal. When fed, alligators lose their natural fear and learn to associate people with food.
Swimmers and snorkelers need to heed alligator warning signs, and not swim in areas where they are posted. These signs are not just for a photo opportunity! It is best to avoid swimming in areas that are known habitats for large alligators but at the least, never swim alone. Always be careful around water. Splashing can attract alligators that think a prey animal is injured. They may act on instinct and attack. Also, avoid heavy vegetation in and near the water's edge as alligators use these areas to bask or ambush prey.
If you see an alligator, you should maintain a safe (50+ feet from it) distance from it. If an alligator hisses or lunges at you, you are too close. Although alligators look slow and awkward, they are extremely powerful and can move with a startling bursts of speed over short distances.
Never attempt to keep an alligator as a pet. Not only is it illegal, but they will soon outgrow the small & cute phase into a large predator.
Never disturb nests or small alligators. Some female alligators protect their young and may become aggressive if provoked. Although baby alligators are docile, they should never be captured, even if the mother is not visible. She may be watching you and decide to take action to protect her babies.
Keep pets and children away from alligators. Large alligators do not recognize the difference between domestic pets and wild food sources. When they are hungry, alligators act on their hunting instinct and might attempt to feed on your house pet if given the opportunity. Keep your dogs on leashes around alligators. Do not allow your dogs or children to swim in waters inhabited by alligators, or to drink or play at the water's edge. To an alligator, a splash potentially means a food source is in the water.
Alligators are an important part of Florida's natural history as well as an integral component of our freshwater ecosystem. As Florida continues to experience human population growth, there are more potential interactions between people and alligators.
A better understanding and a few precautions will help to ensure that humans & alligators can continue to co-exist.
Denise Byrne
Marine Biologist/OW, Tech and Cave Instructor
denise@dayo.com
Orlando, Florida