ove reptiles? Then you’re in for a treat when you visit Florida. The Sunshine State is home to more than a million alligators. The American alligator is so prolific in Florida that it’s now its official reptile.
Florida is also famous for being the Alligator Capital of the World. The distinction is due to Gatorland in Orlando. It’s a wildlife preserve and theme park all in one.
There’s no perfect time to visit Florida. Residents would say any time is the best time to drop by. But if you want to see active alligators, then you should drop by during its mating season.
It’s Time for the Birds and the Bees
When do alligators mate? The official mating season for gators kicks off in April. The warmer climes also begin to heat up the gators. The reptiles start to move around in search of mates. Male alligators begin their courtship rituals during this time too.
The real mating process will only start after a protracted courtship period. But the alligators will finally get down to business starting in May. Mating among these reptiles will continue well into June. Then it’s time to lay eggs.
When do alligators lay eggs? Female gators will start laying their clutch of eggs in late June. This time frame can last until early July. The mother alligators lay eggs in numbers from 32 to 46. It’s why they build large nesting mounds. They will begin hatching in the middle of August all the way to September.
It should become noted that the mating season can come early. Sometimes it starts when summer is in full swing. It depends on the current climate. Cool spring temperatures mean the mating season will be late.
How to Keep Safe During Mating Season
It’s a fact that alligators are wary of humans. They might be larger and more ferocious than men, but gators tend to go out of their way to avoid people. But these can change during the mating season. For one, the animals are more active. They move from swamps to other bodies of water in search of females.
There’s a good chance you’ll encounter them in unusual places, like a golf course. One construction team was then surprised to find a gator inside the house they were building.
The males of any specie also tend to be more aggressive during mating season. It’s why residents and visitors alike should be more mindful during spring and summer in Florida. They should also keep the following in mind:
- Warm weather makes them hungry. The rise in temperatures also leads to a steady increase in the gator’s metabolism. They need energy, which is something a tasty prey can give them. It’s why you should give them a wide berth.
Remember that it’s never a good idea to feed an alligator. It’s illegal in Florida. It’s also dangerous. Gators are not pets. Feeding them can cause them to lose their fear of humans. They might also start connecting people with food.
- Be mindful of where and where you swim. It’s best to do your swimming during the day. You’ll get a great tan and be safe from alligators. These reptiles are more alive in the evening and early mornings. They might mistake your splashing around at night as a sign that their prey is near. Make sure you only swim in designated areas.
- Take photos from a distance. It’s never a good idea to try to take a selfie near an alligator. These animals can move fast. They’re also a crucial part of Florida’s ecosystem. The local government is serious about protecting them.
Keeping Safe While Having Fun
There’s no reason why you can’t be safe while having fun. Safety is not an issue when you’re with Swamp Fever Airboat Adventures. Our company is famous for being one of the premier airboat tour operators in Florida. We’re proud to show people the grandeur of the Withlacoochee River. Our esteemed Captain Ron will make sure you’re safe while riding an airboat. Ring us at 352-643-0708 and let’s chat. You can also book an adventure here.
