Alligators are one of the most dangerous reptiles of the family Alligatoridae that first appeared about 37 million years ago. Alligators and Crocodiles are from the same order Crocodilia and can be found worldwide.
Many people have already faced or come across an alligator at least once. So, have you ever been fascinated by what attracts alligators to humans? If yes, then below is the answer.
Alligators do not think of humans as food or prey. They are mainly attracted by our yard, searching for food, water, and shelter. Also, alligators and crocodiles are very attractive to small pets. They categorize them as prey. Besides this, bright colors like pink, yellow and red are also a sense of attraction for them.
In addition, alligators are also drawn to fishing lures because they mimic natural food. Although it’s uncommon, it is witnessed that alligators are appealing to these lures in many cases.
Later in the post, we have explained more about “what attracts alligators to humans” in detail. So, without any further ado, let’s begin.
What attracts Alligators to Humans?
Alligators are attracted to humans in many ways, but humans are not typically the reason for the center of their attraction. They do not consider us as their food or prey.
For example, more than one million alligators live in Florida’s freshwater system. Still, there have only been twenty-three fatal attacks by alligators that occurred in Florida between 1948 and 2016.
But it is ubiquitous to notice an alligator in the backyard or other residential place, primarily in summers. So, what is the reason behind it? Below are some points that unveil the leading causes of alligators’ attractions.
1) Fishing Lures
Fishing lures are the type of baits used to attract predator fish. But sometimes, crocodiles and alligators are attracted to these lures because they think of them as their natural food.
Often, alligators are easily scared away from fishing boats, but they catch these lures once in a while. And it increases the chances of an alligator attack.
Among all alligators and crocodiles, Saltwater and Nile crocodiles are believed to be very dangerous because they are more territorial and less tolerant. Hence, always try to avoid fishing in crocodiles and alligators’ territory.
2) In search of food
Alligators can move anywhere, including yards, golf courses, and highways, searching for food. Therefore, it is constantly recommended to keep your lawns, gardens, and yards clean so that it deems unattractive to them.
What to do?
- Eliminate all kinds of foods and garbage.
- Never leave leftovers in the open air.
- Always clean up after barbecuing.
- Clean your yard after having a picnic or lunch.
3) To find shelter
Alligators often visit yards or any residential places only to find shelter and take rest. Therefore, to avoid this, you have to keep your yard and surroundings clean and tidy by eliminating clutter or muddles.
It will lessen the probability for alligators, crocodiles, and other reptiles to utilize it as a temporary shelter.
4) In search of water
We all know, alligators and crocodiles love water. Mostly in summer, they traverse far distant due to the shortage of natural food and water. Hence, swimming pools or other water shortage areas are the most attractive factor for them.
Furthermore, preventing them from swimming pools is a challenging task.
What to do?
- Built-in automatic pool cover. We know that it is pretty expensive and cannot be added to the existing pools, but regular pool covers are not enough to prevent alligators.
- Install a sturdy fence around the pool at least 2 feet tall. Alligators can easily climb fences; therefore, building tall ones is better.
- Install pool cage. It will keep alligators away, but, in the meantime, it isn’t easy to maintain.
5) Pets
Alligators mostly attack pets. They categorize pets as attractive prey and easy to target. Due to this reason, they sometimes strike humans who try to save their pets.
Don’t walk pets near lakes, rivers, ponds, or any other water body that might be home to any large reptiles. Also, keep in mind not to leave your pets outside at night when alligators, crocodiles, and other reptiles are most active. If you spot an alligator, walk away with your pet.
6) Bright Colors
Bright colors like pinks, yellows, reds, and oranges also attract alligators. However, it is not scientifically proven, but many people have witnessed that these reptiles are attracted to bright colors of curiosity.
Must Read- Can Alligators/Crocodiles see underwater?
How to prevent alligators from entering the yard?
Now, you know the reasons why alligators are attracted to humans or yards. Therefore, you can perform some methods to keep alligators out of your surroundings.
- Always clean up your lawn and eliminate any food leftovers and garbage.
- Always keep your yard and surroundings clean by eliminating clutter.
- Install a sturdy fence around your lawn or pool at least 2 feet tall to avoid the entering of any wild animals. You can also put-up wood fencing.
- Install pool cage or built-up automatic pool cover.
- Never leave your pets outside the house alone, especially at night. They can lure or jump on alligators or other wild reptiles.
These are some minor changes that you can make to avoid or prevent alligators near your home.
In addition, if it’s your unlucky day and you see an alligator nearby or an alligator attacks you, what to do. Below is the video.
Here, we conclude our article on “What attracts Alligators to humans.” We hope you like it. We will be back with another post. Till then, stay safe and stay tuned.
References
Image Source- USA Today, NDTV
Alligator Safety by UF/IFAS Extension: Solutions for Your Life
Also Read:
Are Lions Colorblind
Top 15 Rarest Turtles in the world
Meet Abhidept (nickname Monty), the visionary founder of How It See, being an engineering student, he’s fueled by an insatiable curiosity about the world around him. He is captivated by an eclectic correlation between animal groups, science, and nature, and this fascination drives his quest for understanding.
After completing his degree, he’s set on a mission to delve deep into the realm of nature, accumulating knowledge to share with you through his writing. In the meantime, he loves to watch anime and read anime.