Alligators

The American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) is a large reptile up to 500 pounds.  Females average 8 feet long and males average 11 feet.  The length of an alligator may be estimated by estimating the length of their snout. Each inch from the tip of the snout to the eyes, equals about one foot of length. They like shallow lakes, ponds, and rivers, and eat turtles, snakes, birds, and small mammals, often feeding at night.

Many problems with alligators are associated with feeding alligators.  The most important rule when seeing an alligator is to LEAVE IT ALONE.  The brochure Living with Alligators has more DO's and DON'Ts about living with alligators.

For nuisance alligator complaints contact the FWC regional office nearest you.

More information

Alligator.net the official site of Commission's alligator program

Living with Alligators

Wildlife Resources Handbook life history fact sheet of crocodiles and alligators 

The Alligator Hole, a private page with lots of Alligator information