Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello all:

I have been really confused on the actions of my alligators. I am definitely under the impression that they are both males due to their actions towards each other. If they are in their indoor enclosure I dont' have any issues with their aggression towards each other. However, if they are outside when they have 8x's the amount of room, they are all over each other fighting for what appears to be no reason. I dont typically keep one individual out there at a time, so I dont see how one of them could claim that area being their own. But they chase each other around the area and tear each other up. I have to go in there and break them apart.

If they are indoors they dont have any issues unless it's food related. It seems that they appear to be more aggressive in what seems to be a more "natural" habitat.

What do you guys think? Do you think that their mindframes could switch just by the view of their surroundings? It is definite that they seem much happier and much more lively outside (Perhaps it has something to do with our scorching 90-95 degree weather lately).

Does anyone happen to have any ideas?

hi Chris...

about your question... this is just an idea... I ´ve seen in my pets...

when they escape or are taken out, feel like they are free and if you try to take them in, become a little agressive...

maybe this can happen with your guys, inside they feel they are captive in an artificial enviroment and just stay calm... but when they are outside, feel a more natural enviroment that makes them act more natural...

hope can help

BTW, could you post some pics of your inside enclosure..???

tks

Rick

Sounds like a variation on the old alligator farm doctrine. Put x number of alligators in a small enough area so they will realize fighting is futile. There is nowhere else for them to go. Put the same amount of alligators in a larger area and you will have more fighting over territory. I am not sure if this theory is proven but your situation might support it.
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It is quite true, put many alligators/crocodilians into a confined area together and they will behave. Put a couple in a larger area and they then feel the need to protect their territories. Your alligators should be quite easy to sex at their size.

"Your alligators should be quite easy to sex at their size."

Well, I am sure that for their size they should be. I just dont' feel comfortable in doing it mainly because I hear that you should have someone experienced there to help you do it properly. I will look more into it, but I dont want to take a risk in harming them in any way. I definitely see your points about the amount of room and I have heard that before. I just thought it might apply to certain ages. I didn't really think that alligators this young would be so territorial.

Thanks everyone for your input. If anyone else has some suggestions or ideas, that would be awesome. I am always up to learning more about crocs!

Best Wishes,

Chris