Florida - The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has provided a few tips for living in Florida with alligators around.
According to the FWC, the American alligator is a conservation success story. Florida has a healthy, stable alligator population, estimated at 1.3 million, consisting of alligators of every size. Alligators inhabit all 67 counties in Florida and can be found anywhere there is standing water.
When temperatures rise in the spring, alligators become more active Because of this, the FWC recommends taking precautions when in or around water. Reduce the chances of conflicts with alligators by swimming only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours. Keep pets on a leash and away from water.
Because alligators control their body heat by basking in the sun, they may be easily observed. However, the FWC urges people to keep their distance if they see one. Never feed alligators, as it is dangerous and illegal.
The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP) to address to address concerns concerning specific alligators. SNAP uses contracted nuisance alligator trappers throughout the state to remove alligators 4 feet in length or greater that are believed to be a threat to people, animals or property.
People with concerns about alligators should call the FWC's toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at (888) FWC-GATOR (392-4286).
Find more information about "Living with Alligators" here.
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