Although many Floridians have learned to coexist with alligators, the potential for conflict always exists. Serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, but if you are concerned about an alligator, call FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286.
Do alligators bother people in Florida?
Gators generally do not attack humans for a number of reasons, but mainly because we are simply too large for gators to deal with. Since 1948, there have been 401 documented alligator bites in the Florida. Of that number, 23 have been fatal attacks. Florida is a prime habitat for alligators.
How common are alligator attacks in Florida?
Florida alligator bite statistics date back to 1948, ranging around three major bites per year. The chance of someone being attacked is one in 3.2 million.
Where in Florida do you have to worry about alligators?
Statewide, 6,700 nuisance alligators were killed or relocated in 2017. That increased to 7,114 last year, according to FWC data. Areas with the highest removals are in and around Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando, Fort Myers and Jacksonville.
Should I be afraid of alligators?
If you hear an alligator hiss, it’s a warning that you are too close. Alligators have a natural fear of humans, and usually begin a quick retreat when approached by people. If you have a close encounter with an alligator a few yards away, back away slowly.
What to do if an alligator is chasing you?
If you happen to lock eyes with an alligator on land, forget running in a zigzag. Run away as fast as you can in a straight line. Alligators will typically chase a human only to defend their territory.
How do you scare an alligator away?
Running away is a good option and a distance of around 20 or 30 feet is usually all it takes to get safely away from an alligator. “They are not made for running after prey,” he said. Making a lot of noise can also scare off a gator before any attack begins.
What part of Florida does not have alligators?
Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren’t occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail.
What city in Florida has the most alligators?
The largest population of gators live in Gainesville, FL. They live in freshwater rivers, lakes, swamps, and marshes. There are an estimated five million American alligators in the southeastern U.S. with a quarter of the alligator population in Florida.
Are alligators everywhere in Florida?
Alligators appear in multiple places around the continental United States, but they’re most predominantly known for living in Florida because of the Everglades and a large number of swamps. But gators don’t stay confined to the swampy areas. They can be found roaming pretty much all over the state.
Is it safe to kayak with alligators?
Though there’s a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. They won’t attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. Still, it’s important to remember you’re a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as such.
Do all lakes in Florida have alligators?
Is swimming safe in Florida lakes? All natural Florida lakes contain alligators and snakes. In addition, the majority of natural Florida lakes have dark or stained water limiting visibility. Alligators and snakes depend upon the ability to ambush prey to survive.
Can alligators get in your house?
Gary Morse, a spokesman for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation, told ABC News that this doesn’t happen often but alligators have been known to go through doggie doors or screened entrances at homes near lakes or ponds.
Can you swim in a lake with gators?
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. It is best to avoid swimming in areas that are known habitats for large alligators but at the least, never swim alone.
Do alligators eat people?
It’s never a good idea to get purposefully close to an alligator, tempt, or provoke it in any way. However, alligator attacks are fairly rare—and they eat people even less commonly. Only a small fraction of attacks are deadly, and often the remains are found intact after an attack.
What to do if you see an alligator in the water?
If you see an alligator in the wild, it’s best to give it space, Ross said. For starters, don’t go into the water if there is an alligator there. “The real problem, of course, comes from the alligator that you don’t see,” Ross said.
What time of year are alligators most active?
Alligators are most active when temperatures are between 82° to 92° F (28° to 33° C). They stop feeding when the ambient temperature drops below approximately 70° F (21° C) and they become dormant below 55° F (13° C). Alligators are dormant throughout much of the winter season.
How do you spot an alligator in water?
Scour the Shore
Since alligators spend most of their time sunbathing on the shores, there are often telltale signs of their presence. Some of these markings might include large indentations or gouges in the ground and sliding marks where they reentered the water.
Can alligators climb stairs?
As if a running alligator wasn’t impressive enough, these prehistoric powerhouses are also known to climb ladders, staircases, trees, and even fences! All they need is enough of an incline to pull themselves up.
Are alligators active at night?
Alligators are nocturnal, thus most active from dusk to dawn. Avoid being near the water’s edge or swimming during this key feeding time.
How aggressive are Florida alligators?
While alligators aren’t typically aggressive, they will protect themselves or their nests if they feel threatened.
