The high waters around the state this spring and summer have resulted in more alligator sightings. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Alligator Program warns the public not to feed them as doing so can create a potentially dangerous situation for you and others who utilize the water.
When alligators are fed by humans, they start associating people with an easy food source, bringing them in much closer proximity to people than they normally would. This can lead to increased opportunity for dangerous conflict between people and alligators. Simply put, they may see humans as source of food once they become accustomed to being fed, according LDWF experts.
“When alligators are fed by humans they overcome their fear and natural shyness and become attracted to humans,’’ said LDWF Alligator Program Manager Jeb Linscombe. “That is why it is so vital not to feed or entice them. We also strongly recommend to use caution when swimming at any time in areas frequented by alligators.”
Always maintain a safe distance between yourself and alligators. And never offer them food, and remember that although you may not be intending to feed alligators, when you discard fish scraps into the water or attempt to feed other aquatic wildlife, you may be inadvertently feeding alligators as well.
LDWF recommends these “do’s” and “don’t’s” when coming in contact with alligators:
· Do use common sense and precautions.
· Do inform others that feeding alligators creates safety problems for those who want to use the water for recreational purposes.
Don’t allow small children to play by themselves around water bodies that may contain alligators.
Don’t throw fish scraps into the water or leave them on shore. Although you are not intentionally feeding alligators the