Identification

The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis, Fig. 1) is the most common of two crocodilians native to the United States and is one of 22 crocodilian species worldwide. The other native crocodilian is the American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus). Caimans (Caiman spp.), imported from Central and South America, are occasionally released in the United States and can survive and reproduce in Florida. The American alligator is distinguished from the American crocodile and caiman by its more rounded snout and black and yellow-white coloration. American crocodiles and caimans are olive-brown in color and have more pointed snouts. American alligators and crocodiles are similar in physical size, whereas caimans are 40% smaller.

Summary of Damage Prevention and Control Methods

Exclusion

Bulkheads along edges of lakes and waterways.

Wire mesh fences.

Habitat Modification

Minimize emergent vegetation.

Drain ponds and borrow pits where appropriate and permitted.

Frightening

Prodding or other harassment can increase wariness. Hunting pressure increases wariness and avoidance of people.

Repellents

None are registered.

Toxicants

None are registered.

Fumigants

None are registered.

Trapping

Baited hooks and trip-snare traps are most effective.

Shooting

Hunt during the day or night with rifles or crossbows.

Other Methods

Hunt with detachable-head harpoons or handheld, breakaway pole snares.

Capture with snatch hooks or tongs.