Warmer weather means more alligator sightings: What to do if you see one

AUGUSTA, Ga (WJBF)- Because the climate warms up, persons are beginning to spend extra day out on the water. Now, social media is blowing up with photos of alligators in native waterways.

So, what do you do when you see an alligator while you’re on the water?

The quick reply is nothing. Go away them alone. The alligators are simply out doing what alligators do of their pure habitat. Assume that in case you are within the river, the canal, and even the lake there are alligators within the water.

Persons are posting photos of their alligator sightings. Most individuals on social media advise the poster to depart the alligators alone– which is the suitable recommendation.

Truck Carlson is with the Veterans for Clear Water and works with the Savannah River Keeper. He defined to NewsChannel 6’s Kim Vickers that alligators will be curious, however for essentially the most half are very afraid of individuals. They aren’t prone to strategy individuals on the water however Carlson has some suggestions in the event that they do.

“If within the uncommon event {that a} gator approaches you, slap the water along with your paddle earlier than they get too shut. That can often ship them away. Nevertheless, in the event that they hold approaching, get away and instantly notify DNR.”

Some on social media advise calling the Division of Pure Assets when you see one.

He stated to not name DNR when you see an alligator in it’s pure habitat. You do need to report an aggressive alligator. These could be ones that proceed to strategy you.

Carlson defined that when alligators are on the financial institution or a waterway, they really feel weak and will shortly and loudly enter the water in the event that they see you. They aren’t being aggressive in that case. They’re hiding from individuals.

Alligators are afraid of individuals and can virtually by no means strategy you both on water or on land. Carlson stated in the event that they do– there’s a good purpose.

“There’s actually solely two causes. One could be– you’re close to a nest, which is tremendous uncommon as a result of they’re tremendous non-public with the place their nests are the place individuals aren’t going to be. The opposite could be, if the gator has been fed by people. Often, it’s human interplay that creates a problematic gator,” Carlson defined.

If an alligator is fed by people it loses its worry of them and sees them as a meals supply. When that occurs, the gator must be put down.

Keep in mind, it’s unlawful to feed alligators in each Georgia and South Carolina. You would be fined $200 and spend as much as 30 days in jail.

So, when you see one within the wild—depart them alone and admire seeing its magnificence.

To report an aggressive alligator name DNR at (706) 595-4222.

To study extra about alligators and their conduct CLICK HERE.