Amazing Video Captures an Alligator Invading a Lacrosse Field Mid-Practice

Written by Sharon Parry
Published: March 29, 2023
© iStock.com/cturtletrax
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American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) are found in ten states but the highest populations are in Florida and Louisiana. This particular gator was captured on camera in Florida by Alonso Ravens HS Lacrosse Team. As the entire team lined up, the reptile saunters nonchalantly across the lacrosse field completely unaware that they have become the center of attention. This is a pitch invasion to remember so scroll down to watch the full video!

Where Do American Alligators Live?

There are more than four million American alligators in the US and their numbers are not under threat right now. Their populations are concentrated in the south-eastern USA. As well as in Florida and Louisiana, they are found in the southern parts of Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi to name just a few locations.

These reptiles have a preference for freshwater environments so you will find them in ponds, rivers and lakes. They also hang out in marshes, wetlands, and swamps – any brackish environment is a potential home for them.

Florida man catches a gator
American alligators live in and near water

©iStock.com/LagunaticPhoto

Southern Florida is unusual because is the only place where both Alligators and Crocodiles occupy the same area. You can tell alligators apart from crocodiles because they have a wider and blunter muzzle and they do not grow so big. Even so, these alligators can reach up to 15 feet in length and weigh up to 800 pounds.

Do Alligators Attack Humans?

The humans in this video are keeping their distance and that is a wise thing to do. Alligators are carnivores and have a strong bite and sharp teeth to help them catch their prey. Their usual diet is made up of fish, birds, frogs and other mammals that wander into their habitat. Humans are not their natural prey but that does not mean that they will not attack us.

Records show that in the state of Florida alone, there are around eight unprovoked alligator attacks per year. It’s no surprise that the larger gators inflict the most serious injuries. Humans can and do die from alligator attacks.

The basic advice is that if you leave alligators alone they are much less likely to attack you. It is never a good idea to antagonize an alligator. Females with young can be very defensive. Feeding them is also a mistake. This makes them view you as a source of food and can make them more aggressive towards you!

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Alligator Lifespan - Alligator front view
© iStock.com/cturtletrax

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About the Author

Sharon has a Ph.D. in Public Health but has spent the last decade researching and writing about all things connected with animal health and well being. As a life-long animal lover, she now shares her family home with three rabbits, a Syrian hamster, and a very energetic Cocker Spaniel but in the past she has also been a Mom to Guinea Pigs and several cats!She has a passion for researching accurate and credible information about pets and reviewing products that make pet owners' lives a bit easier. When she isn't checking out new pet products she's trekking around the Welsh mountains and beaches with her dog - although she lets her husband and her three grown up daughters tag along sometimes if they are lucky!

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