Reptile & Amphibian Forums

As some of you know I recently rescued a small Alligator from a poor owner. I was wondering has anyone seen first hand or have heard of a juv. gator growing 1in. and gaining 1/2 lb. in 7 days. Since I've got her and she was in poor health I weigh and measure her often. In my years of caring for crocs I've never seen a growth rate this fast.

Yes, 1 inch a week, or 4 plus inches per month is not uncommon for the first 5 or 6 months, or first 2 or 3 feet. I have had as much as 6 inches per month for the first two months, but never more than that. 3 inches per month is usual, and 4 inches is common. I have had 42 inch yearlings and 15 inch yearlings. Growth is determined by many variables, and the biggest contributing factor is how much and how often they eat, as well as just what they are eating. Some gators tend to have more voracious appetites and so will eat more if possible and thus will grow much more. Also, like with your little neglected guy there, sudden growth spurts brought about by a sudden availability of food and proper environmental conditions, after a length of deprivation, are not uncommon.

>>As some of you know I recently rescued a small Alligator from a poor owner. I was wondering has anyone seen first hand or have heard of a juv. gator growing 1in. and gaining 1/2 lb. in 7 days. Since I've got her and she was in poor health I weigh and measure her often. In my years of caring for crocs I've never seen a growth rate this fast.
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Thanks for the reply. I figured it could have been from the better "living conditions." I just personally have never seen this in 7 days. I cant wait to see how she measures up week by week for the months total.