Reptiles are among the top pets in the world. They’re also among the most misunderstood creatures. Most believe reptiles as cold and lazy. But some are very active and enjoy a good cuddle now and then. The bearded dragon is one such example. It’s why it’s one of the most popular pet reptiles in the world.
Another popular misconception is the idea that alligators are terrible parents. They’re not. As a matter of fact, female gators are the most maternal of reptiles. They stay with their eggs and hatchlings until they become juveniles. It’s a surprising detail as most types of reptiles abandon their eggs after laying them.
Yes, alligators lay eggs. All reptiles do. They’re like amphibians in this aspect. What’s more interesting is when and where they lay these eggs.
When Do Alligators Lay Eggs?
The mating season for alligators only happens once a year. It often falls between the months of May and June. These reptiles have a long courtship process. Male alligators start preparing and looking for mates as early as April.
The swamps and marshlands of Florida are often noisy during this time. Male gators let out loud growls and bellows to signify their intention to mate. A female gator will mate many times during the season to bolster her chances of laying eggs.
The female alligator will lay eggs after the mating season. It takes about 68 days for the eggs to incubate. You can see baby alligators or hatchlings by the middle of August. But there will also be more eggs hatching in early September.
Where Do Alligators Lay Their Eggs?
Did you know that alligators lay eggs in nests? It’s one thing that sets them apart from their bigger cousin, the crocodiles. Crocs will dig a hole in the ground and lay their eggs there. But female alligators build large nests. This measures anywhere from seven to ten feet in diameter and three feet in length.
The female gator will build her nest out of sticks, dirt, and other vegetation. It’s why she chooses a nesting ground that’s inland but still near the water. The marshy soil is the main component of her nest.
Cool Facts About Gator Eggs
It’s interesting that these large reptiles start life as tiny eggs. Gators also have a lot of siblings. How many eggs do alligators lay? Depending on her age, an alligator can lay anywhere from 20 to 50 eggs. Experts say a female gator will lay an average of 20 eggs in her first year. But this number will go up as she gets older.
Did you know that gator eggs transform over the weeks? The egg will be hard at first. Imagine what a chicken egg looks like. This will give you an idea of how a gator egg feels. Gator eggs have two layers. There’s a hard outer shell and a leather-like inner shell. The hard layer becomes thinner as the weeks progress. It will be soft and squishy by the end of the gestation period.
The soft layer makes it easier for the baby to break free. Gators also have an egg tooth. This is a small spike on their nose that they use to crack the egg. It will fall off after a few weeks. Chicks also have an egg tooth.
Seeing Things in a New Life
Like Florida, there’s more to alligators than meets the eye. Swamp Fever Airboat Adventures can show you a different side of the Sunshine State. Let’s not forget its favorite reptile. Our company is famous for offering the best airboat rides. Explore Lake Panasoffkee and its surrounding areas with us. We’ll show you the amazing alligators and other wildlife. Safety is also not an issue with our Capt. Ron is at the helm. Why not send us a message here with your questions? You can also schedule an adventure online or at 352-643-0708.
