Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My father was born and raised in the South. Every lake in his area was a habitat for alligators. He once told me, "A big alligator is only dangerous to adult humans if it's a female nesting or protecting her young. In particular, adult humans aren't on an alligator's menu, and seldom do alligators threaten humans.

Was his assertion correct?

when the human is being stupid and doing something that they shouldnt be doing!!

Your Daddy was correct.

The only exception to this is the presence of an alligator that has been fed by humans and has desensitized to them. He may approach and attack because he associates the humans with food.
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Israel Dupont
Winter Haven, FL

An unmolested adult male comftorable in his enviroment, where he has learned no fear of humans, could be a problem. Some alligator attacks have been made by gators that have not been fed. Common sense is required with this large, powerful predator. Even though the Seminoles killed and used gators, they would often post lookouts when using the water ways. I am sure this was learned behavior. I believe as more large gators become used to our activities without being molested, we will see more attacks. Even if they haven't been fed, but especially if they have been. I know quite a few ponds I wouldn't swim across at night. Even if it was safe to do so during the day.