It is not uncommon for alligators to bask along the banks of a pond or stream for extended periods of time. and cookie statement. by Wayne Hobbs According to the FWC's website, "an alligator is deemed a nuisance if it is at least 4 feet in length and the caller believes it poses a threat to people, pets or property." If you walk near the water and an alligator comes straight toward you, especially if it comes out of the water, However, alligators that repeatedly follow boats, canoes, or other watercraft, and/or maintain a close distance without submersing may be considered nuisance alligators. Most (41%) alligators <1.5 m in length were relocated, and most (66%) alligators >1.5 m in length were removed through lethal means. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said there are rare circumstances in which someone can claim self-defense with a gator. Alligator bites often result in serious infection. Do - use ordinary common care. Copyright 2018 by WKMG ClickOrlando - All rights reserved. Riding in low light conditions is very different to daytime riding. Never, ever, ever handle wildlife yourself and call a professional. Furbearers. If the animal fits this criteria, call 1-866-392-4286 (1-800-FWC-GATOR) to report your concerns. (662) 563-6221 or 563-6222. Trappers say the gators will be taken to an alligator farm elsewhere in the state. Most alligators can be easily scared away from boats or fishing lures. However, alligators that are smaller than four feet are not considered to be a nuisance alligator because they are "not large enough to be dangerous to people or pets," the FWC said. Remember that they're an important part of Texas's natural history, as well as an integral component of many wetland ecosystems. 2023 www.desmoinesregister.com. WebSNAP operates an alligator hotline, 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286), a number which concerned individuals can call to report a nuisance alligator in their area. If you see an alligator in the roadway, DO NOT attempt to move it! State law prohibits such actions, and the potential for being bitten or injured by a provoked alligator is high. Contact the Nuisance Wildlife Control Your contact information is used to deliver requested updates or to access your subscriber preferences. Most alligators are naturally afraid of humans but may lose that fear when people feed them. Mississippi State Statutes (Title 49, 59 & 97), Administrative Rules Proposed for Public Comment (Title 40 Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks), Effective/Final Administrative Code Rules (Title 40 Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks). The permittee is allowed to retain captured alligators and process or sell them. Alligators that are attracted to a regular food source placed by humans will eventually become conditioned to associate human activity with food resources.