A Native of Southeastern Wetlands
The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) occurs across the southeastern United States. It is most closely associated with freshwater lakes, slow rivers, marshes and swamps, though it can also enter brackish water. As an ectotherm, it uses sun, shade and water to manage body temperature. Its activity changes with weather and season, so a quiet alligator should never be mistaken for a safe one.
Predator, Nest Builder and Parent
Young alligators eat insects, small fish and amphibians, while larger animals take a wider variety of prey including fish, turtles, birds and mammals. Females build nests from vegetation and other material, guard the eggs and respond to hatchling calls. Nest success is far from guaranteed because flooding and predators can destroy eggs or young. These behaviours are part of the species’ ordinary life history, not a reason to approach nesting areas.
Recovery Does Not Remove the Need for Caution
American alligators recovered from major twentieth-century declines through legal protection and management, but they remain protected by law. Feeding them is dangerous because it can reduce their natural wariness of people and create a public-safety problem. Keep pets away from the water’s edge, do not swim where alligators may be present and follow advice from local wildlife authorities. Coexistence works best when alligators stay wild and people keep their distance.
