Palm Beach Gardens: Safely Coexist with Alligators

PALM BEACH GARDENS – As more Floridians settle near the state's abundant waterways, residents of Palm Beach Gardens are reminded to coexist safely with alligators, a vital part of the local ecosystem.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) offers guidance to help residents avoid conflicts with these native reptiles, found in all 67 Florida counties. Increased human population growth leads to more frequent interactions.

FWC advises residents to never feed alligators. This practice is dangerous and illegal. Alligators accustomed to human handouts lose their natural wariness, begin to associate people with food, and may require removal and euthanasia.

Residents should dispose of fish scraps in garbage cans at boat ramps and fish camps, not into the water. This can influence alligator behavior similarly to intentional feeding.

To report a nuisance alligator, residents should call the Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286). The FWC removes, but does not relocate, nuisance alligators.

FWC also urges awareness of potential alligator presence in or near fresh or brackish water. Bites can occur when people are not attentive to their surroundings while working or recreating near water bodies.

Specific safety recommendations include:

• Do not swim outside posted swimming areas or in waters potentially inhabited by large alligators.
• Avoid swimming at night; alligators are most active between dusk and dawn.
• Keep pets, especially dogs and cats, away from waters that may contain alligators. Pets resemble an alligator's natural prey and can attract their attention. Do not swim with your dog.

Observe and photograph alligators only from a safe distance. These animals are an important part of Florida's natural history and aquatic ecosystems.

Seek immediate medical attention for any alligator bite, as they can lead to serious infections.