Alligators begin to get more active in April. | Gerald Herbert, AP
Published on April 1, 2024 at 10:51 am
With a new month beginning, you could start seeing more alligators.
That’s because the alligator “courtship” begins in early April ahead of the alligator mating season, News4Jax reports.
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The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said alligator mating happens in May or June and they can get more aggressive during that time frame.
So, it’s a wise idea to keep an extra eye out. The most recent data from FWC goes up until Dec. 20-22. But since 1948, it has recorded over 450 alligator attacks. Nearly 30 people have been killed.
Of the deadly attacks, over half of them occurred during breeding or nesting season which is why FWC wants you to be careful and follow the law.
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Do not feed alligators. It is dangerous and illegal in Florida.
Keep your children and pets away from the water.
If you see a sign that says ‘don’t swim’ because alligators are around.
Listen. If you see a baby alligator, know the mother is close by. If you’re concerned about an alligator, you can call FWC’s toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-392-4286. FWC will dispatch an alligator trapper to catch it.
And it’s not just the alligators.
Snake mating season happens during the spring in Florid,a and experts say some breeds hit their peak in April. Florida is home to six venomous snake species.
If you see one, the important thing is to remain calm, but knowing which ones can be deadly is key. Click here to see the six venomous snakes in Florida.
This story was produced by News4Jax, a Jacksonville Today news partner.
