HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAFF) – Warmer temperatures are bringing alligators out across the region, and wildlife officials are reminding residents to keep their distance.
Alligator season in Alabama can span several months, but the cold-blooded reptile is typically out during the warmer summer months. Residents can expect to see them in areas with bodies of water across North Alabama.
The Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries division advises people to leave alligators alone. It is illegal in the state to feed them, and residents are asked to keep their distance from a gator.
“Alligators that become acclimated to people and learn to associate people with handouts and food can become dangerous,” said Marianne Gauldin with the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries division. “Do not feed an alligator. It’s not cute, it’s not funny, and it can create a problem for people in your neighborhood or even people that come much later.”
Gauldin said it’s finally warm enough for cold-blooded reptiles to be outside. Alligators have lived in North Alabama for decades, and Gauldin said they’re not out to harm any humans.
She said residents should leave them alone and not approach to take pictures or feed them.
“Seeing an alligator is not a problem. That’s wildlife watching,” Gauldin said. “It’s completely normal to see alligators doing normal alligator things, which may mean they’re on the bank, they’re swimming by, or they’re out in the water. Any alligator that is approaching people or coming up towards commotion needs to be reported to the Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries division to be evaluated about whether this alligator is a nuisance and a potential problem.”
If a gator finds its way into a neighborhood pond, the same laws apply. Gators are protected under Alabama law, so it is illegal to harm them under most circumstances.
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