Unprovoked alligator attacks on humans are rare relative to other accidental death risks in Florida. (FWC) does not track the number of alligators killed by humans in the state. The most common cause of death is drowning, followed by suffocation, strangulation, and asphyxiation.
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How rare is it to get attacked by an alligator?
(FWC) alligators are a protected species under the state’s Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) lists them as “threatened” on its endangered species list. They are protected from hunting, trapping, and other activities that could harm their survival.
Are you more likely to get attacked by a shark or alligator?
Sharks are deadlier predators than alligators. Only the percent of fatal attacks on humans, including the size of the prey they attack, give sharks an advantage. A single great shark managed to attack, wear down, and kill a humpback whale in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010.
Great white sharks are the most dangerous of all shark species. They can kill up to 1,000 people in a single attack and are responsible for the majority of shark-related deaths in North America.
What to do if a gator chases you?
If you find yourself being chased by an alligator, run away in a straight line. In the shortest amount of time, running away in a straight line will give you the most distance between you and the gator. Run away from alligators as fast as you can: Alligators can run up to 30 miles per hour. If you’re not fast enough to outrun them, you might as well get out of the way.
Can you swim in lakes with alligators?
Do not allow your dogs or children to swim in waters inhabited by alligators, or to drink or play at the water’s edge. A food source is in the water if an alligator splashes it.
It is best to avoid swimming in areas that are known habitats for large alligators but at the same time, do not allow your children to play in water that is known to be a breeding ground for the reptile.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-888-404-FWCC (8477) or visit www.floridafishandwildlife.org.
Should I worry about alligators in Florida?
The potential for conflict still exists despite the fact that many Floridians have learned to coexist with alligators. If you are concerned about an alligator, you can call the FWC’s toll-free nuisance wildlife hotline.
