A neighbor to worry about if you live in Florida
Alligators are a fact of life for people living in Florida due to their large population. They live anywhere that there is water and, though they keep mainly to the lakes, ponds, rivers and swamps, you may also encounter them in salt water. Alligators are listed as a threatened species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), as well as a Species of Special Concern.
Hunting and Trapping
You must have the appropriate license and/or permit to hunt, capture, process and sell alligators (does not apply to hatchlings) or to act as an agent for a person engaged in these activities. You must also have a permit to own, sell or transport these animals. Contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission before approaching an alligator.
Feeding
It is illegal to feed alligators in Florida. It is dangerous for alligators to associate food with humans so these laws are in place to protect people.
Owning an alligator
It is illegal to have an alligator as a pet in Florida. Do not try to take a baby alligator and raise him yourself.
Other interactions
Harrassing, killing or injuring alligators is prohibited by law. If you have a nuisance alligator living in your vicinity, call 1-866-FWC-GATOR (1-866-392-4286).
Tags: Fish Wildlife