Gators, Crocs On The Prowl As Summer Temps Heat Up
MIAMI (CBSMiami) – Sultry summer time temperatures are right around the corner.
So how are you going to cool off? Take a dip in a lake or hang out around the pool.
Well so will South Florida's reptilian residents.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), this time of year causes alligators and crocodiles to become more active than usual. Florida is home to two native crocodilians: the American alligator, which is
found in all 67 counties; and the American crocodile, which may be found in coastal areas of the Keys and in southeast and southwest Florida.
People who live, work or play near waterways where the large lizards dwell may want to take precautionary measures to make sure they remain safe.
First of all, if you see a gator or crocodile in lake, canal, water retention pond or whatever, don't feed it. If you do, it will associate humans with food which will make it less afraid of you, according to the FWC.
Second, keep your pets away from the backyard canals, ponds, pools, etc. Also, if you plan on going for a swim in a lake or canal, do so while the sun is out. Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn.
For more "do's" and "don'ts" when it comes to our many toothed friends, check out Living with Alligators and Living with Crocodiles.
If you see an alligator or crocodile hanging around in your neighborhood, contact the FWC at 866-FWC-GATOR.
