American Alligator
Alligator mississippiensis
Least Concern
An ancient predator that has survived for 200 million years. Florida has an estimated 1.3 million alligators in every county. A conservation success story.
Behavior
Primarily nocturnal, often seen basking on banks during the day. Breeding season April-June: males bellow and become territorial.
⚠️ Safety
NEVER feed alligators — it's illegal and makes them associate humans with food. Keep 15+ feet distance. Never approach nests. Keep pets on leash near water. If an alligator hisses, you're too close.
Fun Facts
- Can run up to 35 mph in short bursts
- Build nests from vegetation that generates heat for eggs
- Sex of hatchlings determined by nest temperature
- Have the strongest bite force of any living animal
Where to See
St. Johns River
riverOne of the few north-flowing rivers in North America. 310 miles of diverse ecosystems from marshes t...
Everglades National Park
coastal1.5 million acres of wetlands — the River of Grass. Home to alligators, manatees, crocodiles, panthe...
Lake Kissimmee
lakePart of the Kissimmee Chain of Lakes. Outstanding trophy bass fishing. Connected to the northern Eve...
Identify This Species
Use our Species Identifier to learn how to distinguish the American Alligator from similar species.
