Florida Fish & Wildlife
Tips for co-existing with alligators
Going outdoors this spring? Make sure you’re alligator aware. Serious injuries caused by alligators are rare here and conflicts can be avoided by keeping a safe distance if you see an alligator, never feeding one, and swimming only in designated areas during the day. If you’re concerned about an alligator, call our toll-free hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286).
Alligators have inhabited Florida's marshes, swamps, rivers and lakes for many centuries, and are found in all 67 counties. In recent years, Florida has experienced tremendous human population growth. Many residents seek waterfront homes, and increasingly participate in water-related activities. This can result in more frequent alligator-human interactions, and a greater potential for conflict.
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. The FWC will dispatch one of its contracted nuisance alligator trappers to resolve the situation.
Remember, never feed an alligator and keep your distance if you see one. Swim only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours. And keep pets on a leash and away from the water.
Check out the following links for more information about coexisting with alligators.
Learn more about #alligators: Living with Alligators and Crocodiles
Tips for co-existing with alligators
Going outdoors this spring? Make sure you’re alligator aware. Serious injuries caused by alligators are rare here and conflicts can be avoided by keeping a safe distance if you see an alligator, never feeding one, and swimming only in designated areas during the day. If you’re concerned about an alligator, call our toll-free hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286).
Alligators have inhabited Florida's marshes, swamps, rivers and lakes for many centuries, and are found in all 67 counties. In recent years, Florida has experienced tremendous human population growth. Many residents seek waterfront homes, and increasingly participate in water-related activities. This can result in more frequent alligator-human interactions, and a greater potential for conflict.
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. The FWC will dispatch one of its contracted nuisance alligator trappers to resolve the situation.
Remember, never feed an alligator and keep your distance if you see one. Swim only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours. And keep pets on a leash and away from the water.
Check out the following links for more information about coexisting with alligators.
Learn more about #alligators: Living with Alligators and Crocodiles