Alligators in Alabama: Is it Safe to Swim?

Alligators are often a normal part of life when living in the deep south, where they are a relatively common reptile. Alabama is not the worst state for alligators, but it still has its fair share. 

While they tend to avoid oceans, gators can be abundant in freshwater sources, like lakes, rivers, marshes, and swamps. And when you have summer plans for splashing in Alabama’s natural waters, you may be wondering about alligators. Where do they live in the state? And is it safe to swim in the lakes and rivers? Let’s learn all about alligators in Alabama!

How Many Alligators Are in Alabama?

Alligator populations are flourishing in Alabama.

There are around 70,000 alligators in Alabama, and their numbers are increasing. 

While their population was once threatened with extinction in the state, Alabama enacted protections for this reptile, and their numbers rebounded. Today alligator populations are doing so well that you can hunt them during certain times of the year.

You may notice their presence decreases during the winter and increases in the summer. Alligators brumate when the temperature drops. They are still there, but they stay in the water with their snouts sticking out, remaining still until the weather warms. 

In Alabama, alligator mating season is during April and May. You may notice an uptick in their presence in freshwater. And with mothers actively guarding their nests, you can expect an increase in aggression. However, if you stay out of their way, they will stay out of yours. If you look closely at the water during mating season, you may see the water moving around them from their low-frequency mating rumbles.

Where Do Alligators Live in Alabama?

Due to an abundance of preferred habitats and temperatures, alligators live primarily in Southern Alabama. They like wetland habitats, such as marshes, lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and streams. But you can also find a gator population in Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge along the Tennessee River in Northern Alabama. 

After experts feared for the future of alligators, they were introduced in the northern regions of the state. And while their population is not as abundant as the south, there are growing numbers each year. Now they are relatively common, especially around the Tennessee River.  

Where Are the Most Alligators in Alabama?

In Southern Alabama, you can find American alligators in any wetland area and marshes near the coast. They thrive along rivers and lakes. And will even find their way to the Gulf of Mexico due to their tolerance of salinity. Their common presence in the state can put people on edge around freshwater.

Look for alligators near the shore. They are excellent at hiding when in the water, but you can often find their eyes and snout peaking out. They prefer shallow water, especially areas with weedy vegetation where they can hide. And if you get close enough, you might hear hissing. This is your warning to back away before they strike.

If you want to get a close view of alligators in their natural environment without endangering yourself, check out Alligator Alley in Summerdale. You can walk across elevated boardwalks in a cypress swamp and view over 200 gators at different stages throughout the year.

Are There Alligators on the Alabama Coast?

You most often find alligators in freshwater. But they can handle saltwater for short periods, sometimes up to several days. So, you may think you are safe from these reptiles along the Alabama coast, but this isn’t always the case. Not only can they live in estuaries and saltwater bayous, but they can also be found in the Gulf of Mexico and nearby lagoons. 

Is it Safe to Swim in Alabama Lakes and Rivers?

You should never swim in lakes, rivers, or any other body of water with alligators. If an area is known for having a gator population, it is best to stay away. And even if you are in a spot that isn’t known for having an active population, you should still check the water’s edge before diving in. Because alligators can easily migrate from one water source to the next, you can’t always be sure there aren’t any in Alabama lakes and rivers, especially those in the southern portions of the state. 

If you see one some distance away, it is still best to avoid getting in the water. Splashing can attract them and cause them to attack instinctively. It is best to find a public-access swimming beach where officials actively monitor the waters. 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © meunierd/Shutterstock.com