Many people have started to see more and more alligators out and about, on the prowl, looking for mates.
“Alligators tend to come out during the springtime because that’s their mating season,” biology teacher Diana Marazzo said. “You will see a lot of alligators around the start of March to the end of May because that’s the timeframe for their mating season.”
Alligators, especially males, are more aggressive and territorial during mating season, which can lead to them being more visible as they defend their territory.
“Alligators actively court each other during mating season, which also leads to increased activity [walking around],” Marazzo said.
Mating season typically runs from April to June. During this time, alligators are more active and territorial and may be seen more frequently near bodies of water and even venturing onto land in search of mates.
“I have been seeing more alligators around school because there’s a bunch of lakes and swamps near there, and whenever me and my friends go to play basketball after school, we see them roaming around the area by Bobby Hicks,” Ezra Murray (‘27) said.
Most students tend to record when they see alligators but know to keep their distance to avoid any casualties or accidents from occurring; they are smart to avoid them during mating seasons.
“If you ever see an alligator, the most important thing for you to do is to remain calm and keep a safe distance. Back away slowly and avoid provoking it. If the alligator seems disturbed by your presence, continue to back away slowly. If the alligator starts to pursue you, run in a straight line as far and fast as you can,” Zachery VanDeman IB SL biology teacher said.
While alligators can attack humans, they are generally calmer and less aggressive than crocodiles. However, they can be easily provoked or feel threatened, which may cause them to chase or defend themselves and their territory.
“Some alligators may be displaced or seek new territories during mating season, leading to more frequent sightings in unexpected places,” VanDeman said. “In drought situations, alligators may be forced to seek water in areas outside of their normal habitat, increasing the likelihood of encounters with humans.”
As always just remember to stay safe and keep a close eye out for alligators; and make sure that you’re aware of your surroundings and where alligators are normally seen around our school and community.