Last Updated on April 18, 2024 by Amin Tawar
Are There Alligators In Florida?
Yes, there are Alligators in the State Of Florida. After the Second World War, the alligator population in Florida diminished radically because of overhunting. They were harvested for their skins, that was exported to Europe. This wasn’t long before they were nearly on the verge of extinction.
During the late 19th century, a few places in Florida had many alligators that people would articulate that you can walk in most waterways on an alligator and never get your feet wet! In 1967, the reptile was listed on the endangered species list but was removed from the list in twenty years. The recovery of these species is a huge success in the state.
Today, Florida has over a million alligators in the state as it has the ideal habitat for them to live in. Its vegetation is dense, food is abundant, and there are very less enemies. Though currently there are only a few alligators, the population is rising rapidly.
How Many Alligators In Florida?
Alligators are a ubiquitous sight in the state of Florida. Florida has more than 1.3 million alligators. There is no single body of fresh water that is safe from alligators, in the state. So, it is best to stick to a swimming pool, though sometimes you can see them taking a dip in there too.
Where Are Alligators Primarily Found In Florida?
Based on that population of alligators, they can be seen anywhere there is water. In Florida, alligators have mostly inhabited the state’s wetlands, lakes, rivers, and swamps for many centuries. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says that they are found in all 67 counties.
Most of the alligator-infested lakes in the U.S. are located in Florida. The water bodies in Florida that contain alligators are Lake Poinsett, Sawgrass Lake, Lake Okeechobee, Alligator Lake, Lake Kissimmee, Lake George, and Lake Jesu.
Why Is Florida Full Of Alligators? (Are Alligators Very Common In Florida?)
Unlike the other U.S., states Florida is known to have the best climate for alligators. Alligators can regulate their body temperatures as they are cold-blooded animals and so do not like cold temperatures. The warm sunlight helps these reptiles to get temperatures high, and you can often see them basking under the sun, when they feel too hot, they open their mouths to chill themselves down.
As, Florida’s temperatures are between 88°F and 91°F, and evening temperatures drop only a bit with the humidity, the Sunshine State, is perfect for alligators, which can be uncomfortable for humans, but gators never complain about it. Also, when looking at the number of alligators living in the state they are very common.
Also Check Our Guide On Alligators In US
Are alligators a problem in Florida?
Although Florid’s residents have learned to live with alligators, they are still considered a problem to the locals in the state as there are potential conflicts that exist. Also, there have been serious injuries that have been caused by these species in Florida, though they have been quite rare. It is not just, alligators being a problem.
Even humans are known to disturb them. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has stated that despite this, serious incidents happening in the state individuals do interact with these reptiles in Florida.
How Rare Are Alligator Attacks In Florida?
In recent years, Florida has been experiencing massive human population expansion. Many locals desire waterfront homes and actively like to participate in water-related sports. This has resulted in more frequent human-alligator interactions, which concludes in a greater conflict.
Most of the alligator attacks in Florida have resulted in death but these attacks are relatively unusual and they seldom bite people according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
The most recent alligator attack was on a 69-year-old woman walking her dog in Fort Pierce, Florida. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported that the animal was 10 feet long and it first attacked the dog but went after the woman when she tried to save the dog.
Is it safe to live in Florida with alligators?
Yes, it is safe to live in Florida with alligators. But to be safe you must follow the suggestions that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission provides. The department states that you must never feed an alligator when you spot it.
Also, maintain a safe distance from the reptile when you see one. Likewise always make sure to swim only in designated swimming spots and that must be done only during daylight hours. Remember to keep your pets leashed far away from the water bodies where alligators are inhabited.
Can You Hunt Alligators In Florida?
Yes, you can hunt alligators in Florida. Florida wildlife officials have decided to allow daytime alligator hunting after many decades. The alligator open hunting season is from mid-August to November. A permit allows only the harvest of two alligators.
To take part in the Florida alligator hunting season, hunters must have an alligator trapping license, an alligator hunting permit, and two alligator hide validation tags. There is a limited number of permits available and the permits for this year might be sold out.
Every year more than 10,000 hunters apply and the permits are provided using a lottery-style selection procedure. For Florida residents, an alligator hunting permit, license, and two CITES tags would cost $272. For non-residents, a hunting permit, license, and two CITES tags would cost $1,022.
Also Check Our Guide On Alligators In Everglades
Can You Buy Alligators In Florida?
Many states in the U.S. have banned the ownership of exotic animals like alligators. However, Florida permits you to own one. But, you must have a Class II Personal Pet license and a permit issued by the FWC Captive Wildlife Program. You must meet the 1,000 hours of practical experience in handling alligators and must have the necessary caging requirements when applying for the License.
Conclusion
And that was everything you need to know about the Alligators in Florida. I hope this article answered all your queries.
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