Alligator Behavior Towards Humans

Attacks

• While alligators aren't normally aggressive towards humans, attacks do occur, especially with alligators whose territories extend into areas that are populated or frequented by humans. Attacks by smaller alligators, those under 8 feet, are generally executed with a single bite followed by immediate release. Larger alligators are more likely to attack with multiple bites, increasing the chance that the attack will result in severe damage or even death. When attacking, the alligator bites into the victim, resulting in puncture wounds. After biting and securing a hold, the alligator may attempt to roll violently, rending flesh. Alligator attacks on humans can also result in broken and dislocated limbs.

Cause

• Most alligator attacks are not the result of territorial or nest defense. In cases where an alligator feels threatened and is defending its territory or its young, it will often rely on intimidation and obvious displays of force, such as hissing or approaching on the surface of the water as visibly as possible. Many alligators who attack humans do so because constant exposure to human presence causes the alligator to lose natural fear and possibly begin to view humans as potential prey. This view can be further strengthened, thus increasing the alligator's aggressiveness toward humans, after a successful attack on a human.

Areas

• By far the area with the largest number of unprovoked attacks against humans in the United States is Florida. Other states in the American Southeast also occasionally see attacks, including South Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia and even Texas. Most attacks occur in or near the edge of waterways, though alligators are known to traverse overland, even climbing 5-foot tall fences in order to attack domesticated animals. The waterways in and around golf courses and higher-density residential areas are more likely to produce an attack because of the larger number of humans in close proximity to an alligator's habitat. The more an alligator is exposed to human presence the more likely it will attack a human.

Avoiding

• Wooden or concrete bulkheads along the edge of lakes and waterways that extend at least 3 feet out of the water will help prevent alligators from using the area to hunt, helping prevent the danger of attacks. The most effective method of preventing alligator attacks is to avoid the animal all together. Do not swim in or stand near water that is known to contain large alligators. In addition, be especially wary and avoid water activities at dusk or night during warmer months, as alligators are more active during these times.