Alligators play a vital role in Florida’s ecosystems, but during nesting season, their behavior can become more aggressive—especially among females protecting their nests.

Beginning in early April and continuing through June, alligator breeding season is in full swing. Female alligators are particularly territorial during this time and will guard their nests fiercely.

“If you’re walking on a nature trail and there’s an alligator nest nearby, she’s going to defend it,” Joe Wasilewski, a wildlife expert with the University of Florida’s Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, told WUSF.

These nests—often built near water from soil, vegetation, and debris—can reach up to 3 feet tall and 5 feet across. Females typically lay between 32 and 46 eggs in late June or early July, with hatchlings emerging between mid-August and early September. Mothers usually remain within 10 feet of their nests and will hiss or gape to deter threats, though they rarely bite.

Florida is home to more than a million alligators, found in all 67 counties, so encountering one isn’t uncommon. But don’t buy into the myths—alligators can’t run 35 mph, and zigzagging isn’t necessary.

“If there’s an alligator behind you, you’re going to be faster than it—trust me on that one,” said Wasilewski. “Just run straight.”

While alligators are capable of short bursts of speed on land, they’re not built to chase prey far. They’re most dangerous when near the shoreline, where they can lunge with surprising force.

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When and Why Alligators Attack

Most alligator attacks occur in or near bodies of water—especially where humans have fed them, which is illegal in Florida. Feeding gators teaches them to associate people with food, which increases the risk of aggression.

“Once they lose their fear of humans, that’s when they become dangerous,” Wasilewski explained to WUSF. “Don’t be chummy with them, and they won’t be chummy back. Observe from a distance, take a photo, and move on.”

Since 1948, Florida has recorded about 490 alligator bites and 27 fatalities. Over the last decade, the state has averaged around eight unprovoked bites per year that require serious medical care.

“Being attacked by an alligator in Florida is a one-in-several-million proposition—kind of like winning the lottery,” Wasilewski said. “But it can happen.”

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Ecological Role of Alligators

Alligators aren’t just top predators—they’re also essential to the Everglades’ health. During dry seasons, they dig “gator holes,” which can span 50 feet wide and several feet deep. These water-filled refuges become lifesaving habitats for fish and other aquatic species until rains return.

“Alligators are engineers of the Everglades,” said Wasilewski. “They play a serious ecological role everywhere they’re found.”

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Spotting a Nest and Staying Safe

Alligators inhabit nearly all of Florida’s fresh and brackish waters—and even venture into saltwater on occasion. If you’re unsure about an area, check with park rangers or local authorities. Nesting zones are sometimes roped off or marked with warning signs.

“Don’t be frightened—just stay alert,” said Wasilewski. “If you know there’s nesting in the area, it’s best to steer clear until the season ends.”

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Alligator Safety Tips

• Always supervise children near water.
  
• Only swim in designated swimming areas—and only during daylight.
  
• Avoid swimming at dawn or dusk, when alligators are most active.
  
• Keep pets away from lakes, rivers, or canals. Dogs resemble natural prey and their movements can attract gators.
  
• Never feed alligators or toss fish scraps into the water. Even unintentional feeding encourages dangerous behavior.
  
• If attacked, fight back—aim for sensitive areas like the eyes, snout, or throat.
  
• Seek immediate medical help for any bites, as infections are common.
  

To report an alligator that poses a threat, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 1-866-FWC-GATOR (392-4286).

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