Alligators - Florida

Alligator lurking for prey?
Actually, this one is simply
enjoying the warmth of a sunny
December day in Florida. To see
a larger image, please click your
moust over any photograph on
this page.

An alligator smile?
When people catch a glimpse of
an alligator, they often are
fascinated by the apparent
smiles they give as they recline
along the banks of waterways.

Alligators have long been associated
with the mysteries of the Deep South.
Powerful and fascinating, they also
play a significant role in the natural
and cultural history of the region.

Often falsely portrayed as naturally
aggressive, alligators in fact are
naturally shy of humans. They can,
however, become dangerous when
defending themselves or when they
become too accustomed to humans
intruding in their environment. This is
especially true in areas where people
unwittingly begin feeding them.

Despite the media attention they
draw, alligator attacks on humans are
extremely rare.

Today, alligators are rarely seen at
lengths greater than ten feet, but early
explorers often describe them as
reaching tremendous size.

To learn more about alligators and
their importance to the South, please
follow the links to the right.