Spring in Florida doesn’t just bring sunshine and blooming flowers—it also marks the start of alligator mating season, and these ancient reptiles are already on the move. If you’re living near water or enjoying outdoor activities, now is a great time to brush up on safety tips and learn more about what’s happening in the wild.
When Is Alligator Mating Season?
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC):
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Courtship begins in April
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Mating occurs in May and June
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Females lay 32–46 eggs in late June or early July
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Eggs incubate for about 60–65 days
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Hatchlings emerge in late August or early September
During this time, adult alligators are more active and mobile as they search for mates or nesting grounds.
Where Are Alligators Found?
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Florida is home to approximately 1.3 million alligators
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They are present in all 67 counties
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Alligators thrive in freshwater and brackish water, but they are occasionally spotted in saltwater environments too
Are Alligator Attacks Common?
Not really. The risk of a Florida resident being seriously injured by an unprovoked alligator is about 1 in 3.1 million, according to FWC.
However, more people are moving near lakes, ponds, and canals, and engaging in water activities, which increases the chances of human-alligator interactions.
Quick Stats (1948–2022):
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453 unprovoked bites
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26 fatalities
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Average of 8 serious bites per year from 2012–2022
Safety Tips: How to Stay Safe During Gator Season
Whether you’re kayaking, walking your dog, or enjoying a day by the water, here’s what you need to know:
General Awareness
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Stay alert near freshwater and brackish water
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Observe from a distance—never approach or attempt to touch alligators
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If you spot a gator that seems threatening, call FWC’s Nuisance Alligator Hotline:
1‐866‐FWC‐GATOR (392‐4286)
What Not to Do
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Do not feed or entice alligators – it’s illegal and makes them associate humans with food
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Never swim outside designated areas or at night (dusk to dawn), when gators are most active
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Don’t let pets play, drink, or swim near gator habitats. Dogs are especially vulnerable
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Avoid throwing fish scraps into the water. Use garbage bins at boat ramps and camps instead
Family and Pets
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Always supervise children around any body of water
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Keep pets on a leash and away from the water’s edge
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Do not leave food or pet bowls outside near water sources
If You’re Bitten
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Fight back—make noise, kick, hit, or aim for the eyes
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Alligators often retreat if they can’t overpower their prey
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Seek immediate medical help—bites can cause serious infections
Why Alligators Matter
Despite the fear they may inspire, alligators are crucial to Florida’s ecosystem. They help maintain the balance of aquatic environments and have been part of the state’s natural history for millions of years.
Let’s coexist safely—respect their space, stay vigilant, and spread awareness.
Enjoy Florida’s outdoors safely—and remember, when it comes to alligators, it’s best to admire them from afar.
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