They are found in parts of Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas, and North Carolina. With so many great places to kayak in Florida, theres no need to risk an encounter with an alligator. With so many of these predators roaming around, one might anticipate fatal alligator attacks are a regular occurrence. Running away is a good option and a distance of around 20 or 30 feet is usually all it takes to get safely away from an alligator. In general, as long as you stay clear of them and don't go swimming in their home or get close to their nests, you should be fine. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. That doesn't mean they don't happen; when the Newsweek article was written in 2016, there had been 23 unprovoked fatal attacks. However, there have been repeated cases of alligators getting into peoples' yards and homes. Leave alligators alone. But gators don't stay confined to the swampy areas. Dont approach to take selfies; dont approach to check if its alive. How many gator attacks in Florida per year? March 01, 2023. From 1948 through 2008, 410 unprovoked bites have occurred, with 25 ending in the persons death. Scientist Brian Switek stated that "crocodilians are capable of breaking down the carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in vegetable matter, so the fruit-eating by these archosaurs could be a nutritional supplement. The . Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that arent occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. The biggest difference between a crocodile and an alligator is their snouts. Although alligator bite incidents resulting in serious injury are rare in Florida, the FWC recommends taking precautions when having fun in and around the water. In addition, there are many access points along the river, such as Terry Park or James J. Nance Park. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. Initially, scientists thought this was a practice specific to the reptiles raised in captivity, but studies have been conducted on wild alligators as well. What Happens To The Male Duck After Mating? The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. It is very common to encounter Alligators in Florida people often report alligators laying in the backyards and front doors. We cover the whole outdoor arena. And dont think the prehistoric predators are confined to wildlife areas. In the late spring time it's mating season., they can show up anywhere then. If you plan on kayaking, the best time to visit Ichetuknee Spring is during winter, as the waters are quieter without all of the tubers. If something unexpected happens while on your trip, make sure you have emergency contacts written down. That means Floridians cant just call up the local alligator trapper to remove one like they would if it were a raccoon or possum. This story was originally posted to PalmBeachPost.com and shared to GateHouse's Florida websites. Otherwise, nuisance gators can be sold to an alligator farm. The Everglades National Park is one place all kayakers should avoid due to the high population of alligators. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Alligators have always frequented Disney World, but the issue came to a head in 2016 after a tragic incident involving an alligator killing a two-year-old boy at a Walt Disney World hotel. Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have contact with algae or discolored or smelly water. So if youre planning a kayak trip to Florida, keep these points in mind to have a fun and safe time! Bend are some of the places that may be included. RELATED: Father of boy killed by gator couldnt pull child from gators jaws. Some of these waters are Ichetucknee, Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Some of these markings might include large indentations or gouges in the ground and sliding marks where they reentered the water. Put on your life jacket, grab your paddle, and set off for an exciting adventure in Florida! They can literally be in any puddle of water, said Boynton Beach resident Richard Cochran, who removed nuisance alligators for the state until last year when an unrelated back injury sidelined him. If you see an alligator at a spring, if there has been a recent report of one, or there are No swimming signs up, then do not swim. American alligators are no longer an endangered species, but are protected under a classification that allows only people with special licenses and permits to take them. Use your common sense and if you see or hear anything that makes you uncomfortable, head back to shore. Alligator bites are most likely to occur in or near water, as alligators are not well-equipped to catch prey on dry land. Do not try to feed it or get too close, as this could provoke an attack. It is illegal to feed or harass alligators in Florida. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. It has more alligators than any other state. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. Typically, alligators have about 80 teeth in their mouth at one time, but they lose teeth frequently. I'm passionate about helping people achieve their dreams, and I believe that education is the key to unlocking everyone's potential. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so you can plan your kayaking trip accordingly. If you decide to visit in the winter, you will see some of the many bird species that populate this area. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. The snakes that swim underneath submerged in the water are harmless but if you see one swimming up along the top of the water with its head up, watch out as its a cottonmouth (water moccasin) and they are aggressive. Alligators are a top predator that has entered popular culture and frequently appear in the news, usually in connection with some crazy Florida story. It's not all that surprising, given how well-kept the waters are. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George near the St. Johns River in northwest Florida has the most, with more than 2,300. Are you looking for where to kayak in Florida without alligators? That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. Just like last week, there was an incident involving a massive alligator scaling a fence into a Navy base. The nuisance alligator was brought under control by officer Manuel Orol in the Kendall area on Feb . So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. 4. They already feel they have free run of the place, but when bad weather strikes, it's not uncommon to find displaced gators on the roads, in local swimming pools, and even in your backyard. This park is located in Key Largo, where you can kayak and explore the wildlife of the coral reef. However, that doesn't stop people from referring to them as such, and why wouldn't they? The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. 13 9 Eric Rummel Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. There are less than 2,000 crocodiles in the United States. Bear in mind that the John Pennekamp Coral Reef is very popular over the weekends, especially if it is good weather, attracting crowds of kayakers and people on jet skis and motorboats.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-box-4','ezslot_4',126,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-box-4-0'); For the average kayaker, open-water paddling in the protection of the mangrove wilderness is a calming experience. Witnesses called 911 and firefighters recovered the woman's body . In many cases, the loss of this natural fear is due to people feeding alligators something that is against the law. That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. Alligator and Wildlife Discovery Center, in Madeira Beach on Florida's west coast, is a smaller stop that's good for kids who want to give a gator a smooch, while Jungle Adventures, near Merritt Island on the Space Coast, features all sorts of Florida critters plus a jungle swamp river cruise. I got my start in education as a teacher, working with students in grades K-12. However, the experienced kayaker can venture beyond the mangroves and onto the reef for a more thrilling experience on lovely days with calm seas. Anyone with concerns about an alligator should call the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program at 866-392-4286. I'm also a big believer in lifelong learning- there's always something new to learn! Here are some top spots for kayaking in Florida without having to worry about run-ins with these dangerous reptiles. How Many Eggs Do Runner Ducks Lay A Year? Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Blackwater River Ichetucknee Springs John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Rainbow Springs State Park Santa Fe River The Great Calusa Blueway Thats because of a little bug called Naegleria fowleri, a type of of amoeba that can cause a severe infection. You can rest assured that many in the Sunshine State are home to gators. Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. Louisiana and Florida have the largest alligator populationsthere are more than one million wild alligators in each state. A video posted on Twitter shows one gator crawling across a road before charging onto the sidewalk and into trees. American Alligators are found in the Southeastern United States including Orlando. The largest population of gators live in Gainesville, FL. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to find the best places to enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any alligators. Leave alligators alone. [Whats The Best Method? Cochran said if a nuisance gator is 4 feet or longer and the trapper doesnt have a special permit to take it alive, its usually killed. How do you know if a lake has alligators? It is one of the United States wildest and longest publically owned coastal wetlands. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. To an alligator, a splash potentially means a food source is in the water. 14 Best Places To See Wild Alligators In Florida Everglades National Park The Everglades National Park is the third-largest national park in the United States! Lets look at the seven alligator-free places where you can kayak. They live in brackish or saltwater areas, and can be found in ponds, coves, and creeks in mangrove swamps. Home University Of Florida What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? 12 Things You Didnt Know About Alligators In Florida. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. This area is a part of the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Wildlife Management Area, where you can enjoy kayaking in the mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. Thats because alligators can leap up to five feet out of the water to snag their dinner. Although Florida has a large alligator population. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. These include: Looking for places to kayak in Florida that dont have alligators in the vicinity is tricky as Florida is almost famous for its alligators. This means the only surviving Archosaurs are the croc family and the birds. They are unlike any other reptile, and there are a great many of them out there. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. That said, alligator-on-human attacks are somewhat frequent, more so than other predators such as sharks, because alligators have grown increasingly bold in where they venture. When people say alligators are all over the place in Florida, they're not lying. Ultimate Guide To Florida Alligators | Facts About Gators In Florida. First of all, feeding gators is illegal in Florida, so that's a pretty good reason not to do it. What to Look For When Buying a Used Kayak? Since then, it has grown somewhat to 300 by 2017. In the days before the attack, six alligators were removed, and in the days after, five more were removed. Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions: Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom. kayak or take a guided tour along the river, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators, life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak, safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking. Do Not Corner An alligator And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. This will give you time to kayak out of the area into safety. People tube in the water as if it is a lazy river. Alligators are apex predators, one that has popularized popular culture and frequently appears on the news, typically attached to a crazy story coming out of Florida. Statewide, 6,700 nuisance alligators w ere killed or relocated in 2017. Theyve been at peoples front doors, in retention ponds, swimming pools, Cochran said. The Florida conservation commission said in November 2021 there were 442 unprovoked alligator bites in Florida from 1948 to 2021, averaging six a year. Males can grow up to 13 feet long and weigh 800 pounds, with the largest ever recorded measuring 17.5 feet. 02:14. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? Learn More{{/message}}. Here are some general safety tips for kayaking in Florida: Pay attention to signage: Many areas that are popular for kayaking, such as state parks and nature preserves, have signage indicating the presence of alligators. Why are there no alligators in Florida springs? Yes, you can make money with a 3D printer. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. Alligators can swim as fast as 20mph with the help of their tails and webbed feet. There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. Most of us think of alligators as vicious, carnivorous predators, but did you know they are fond of eating fruit? RELATED: 10 Things You Didn't Know About The Loch Ness Monster. Although alligators can be found in ponds, lakes, canals, rivers, swamps, and bayous in Louisiana, they are most common in our coastal marshes. Punch, hit, kick, or attack the eyes of the gator that has sunk its teeth into you. You will have a better chance of not seeing any alligators as they prefer to stay away from salt water. 13 Best Places to Paddleboard in Florida Keys, FL, Texas Kayaking Laws: Kayak Rules And Regulations In Texas. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. Now there are signs up warning guests about the possibility of encountering a gator in certain areas. Theres no need to worry about alligators here as they are not present in the area, so if youre looking for a place to explore and observe wildlife while kayaking, the Suwannee River is your best bet. So we decided to create a place where we could gather all our concerns, and who knows, maybe we could also help someone else in our situation. Is it safe to kayak in Florida with alligators? West Palm Beach and its suburbs racked up a total of 205 removals over the past two years, with 139 taken from Wellington and 77 from Palm Beach Gardens. In the end, we have outlined some safety tips for kayaking in Florida. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. To experience the best of the area, here are five standout wildlife experiences to weave into your trip. You know water sports you know me! In order to help you, the following are the 12 best places to kayak in Florida without Alligators. Last year, a 61-year-old man was killed by a 10-foot alligator while swimming at Blue Spring State Park in Orange City. Where can you swim in Florida without alligators? The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. 1 rule of alligator safety is an easy one. Please contact the developer of this form processor to improve this message. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. That increased to 7,114 last year, according to FWC data. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. If you remain close to the saltwater near the coastline. They may be big, but they're surprisingly agile creatures. So Be Always careful even if you cant see them doesnt mean they cant see you either. You will find beautiful scenery and plenty of wildlife to observe while exploring. But hear not, You are far more likely to injure yourself in some other way than to be eaten by an alligator. The largest population of gators live in Gainesville, FL. What Safety Equipment is Required On a Kayak In Florida? In addition, the majority of natural Florida lakes have dark or stained water limiting visibility. Like bears, gators can smell the menstruation, which will put your entire party at risk. Each month the park hosts ranger-led tours that are free to the public and nighttime hikes for a small fee. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. The state park is enormous. When looking for an area that might have reduced or non-existent numbers of alligators. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. They look like something that crawled out of the prehistoric era. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. A Miami-Dade police officer has been caught on video wrangling an alligator in southern Florida. Sweetwater Wetlands Park encompasses more than 125 acres of swamps, with upwards of 3.5 miles of walking trails and boardwalks where you can view the area wildlife, including alligators. The answer to that question is yes and no. Ensure to keep an eye out for things like logs, rocks, or other submerged objects that could be hazardous to your boat. Thanks for reading! Alligators appear in multiple places around the continental United States, but they're most predominantly known for living in Florida because of the Everglades and a large number of swamps. Low fences, therefore, may not be sufficient protection for pets in areas where alligators are present. There is something for everyone. There are freshwater spring-fed rivers in Central Florida that are free of alligators and sharks. Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. But you get used to them and just use common sense and you will be fine. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. The number of pet dogs attacked and killed by Alligators is countless. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. Not surprisingly, alligators are a big draw for visitors to Florida's national parks and Everglades. While paddling, keep an eye out for alligators or any other potential hazards that may be present in the water. Do any lakes in Florida not have alligators? It is also a family-friendly river perfect for scenic and wildlife viewing. Dont walk by the shoreline at sunrise and sunset. And other interesting facts. Along with being apex predators, these incredible animals can also grow to exponentially large sizes. American alligators are found mostly in South Florida, where they live in brackish and saltwater habitats such as ponds, bays, and creeks of mangrove swamps. After an 85-year-old woman was killed by an alligator in a neighborhood in St. Lucie County, Florida, three more alligators have been removed from the same area. Baby alligators, in particular, are the most at risk. A map of where nuisance alligators have been removed includes all areas of the state, from Pensacola to the Keys. (FDACS) estimates that the number of gator sightings in Florida has been on the rise over the past few years. Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. Where do most alligators live in Florida? Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. American alligators reside nearly exclusively in the freshwater rivers, lakes, swamps, and marshes of the southeastern United States, primarily Florida and Louisiana. On average, the state sees about seven unprovoked bites per year. It is the only place where crocodiles and alligators live together. Do alligators roam the streets in Florida? My life is all about it. Paddling in this river is easy as it has no strong currents or rapids. Tampa topped the list in 2017 with 181 nuisance gators but was bested last year by. Florida has over 30,000 Lakes and every single one of these lakes is home to gators so always be careful while walking around Lakes in Florida. 2022 Kayak-sensei Built with Kayak-sensei. The island is only accessible by boat, making it a great place to get away from the crowds. Alligators are fascinating creatures, but that doesn't mean we'd be willing to get close to any of the million-plus living in Flordia right now. Video. These include: Ichetucknee Springs John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Weeki Wachee Springs Blackwater River The Great Calusa Blueway Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Rainbow Springs State Park A photo of an American Alligator Sunning itself, Cape Canaveral National Seashore, FL, Some People Refer To Them As "Living Fossils", An Alligator Will Grow More Than 2,000 Teeth In Its Lifetime, They Aren't Naturally Aggressive Toward Humans, The Estimated Alligator Population In Florida Is Around One Million, The Largest Alligator Weighed In At Over A Thousand Pounds, Temperature Determines Whether An Alligator Is Male Or Female, because of the Everglades and many swamps, 10 Things You Didn't Know About The Loch Ness Monster, alligators and crocodiles are not living fossils, 10 Of The Most Haunted Places To Visit In Florida, a common sight in the swamps of Louisiana, Lavish Accommodations: Discovering The 10 Most Expensive Hotels In Chile, Breathtaking Mountain Views & Great Luxury: 10 Most Expensive Hotels In Argentina, Spirited Stays: 10 Haunted Hotels In Savannah To Satisfy Your Paranormal Passion, Fun In A University City: The Ultimate Guide To Bowling Green & Things To Do, Beaches & Views: The Ultimate Guide To Biloxi & Things To Do, Art & Adventures: The Ultimate Guide To Knoxville & Things To Do, Luxury At Its Finest: The 10 Most Expensive Hotels In New York City, 10 Best Tropical Destinations Around The World You Should Visit, Discover The Incredible Hidden Gems In Algarve, Portugal. Statewide, 6,700 nuisance alligators were killed or relocated in 2017. Find out why an alligator may be spotted on the island but learn their main territory which is the mainland. Crystal River: This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. Although bites from alligators resulting in serious injury are rare in Florida, the FWC recommends taking precautions when enjoying yourself in and around water. Since alligators spend most of their time sunbathing on the shores, there are often telltale signs of their presence. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. And since alligators tend to avoid saltwater, you dont have to worry about them here. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. They wont attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. Although they are often confused, crocodiles and alligators aren't the same creatures. But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. One of the people killed was 10-year-old Bradley Weidenhamer, who died after he was attacked by a 400-pound alligator on the Loxahatchee River in 1993. Alligator farm, its also important to wear bright clothing and clothing with soap and water you! Lets get to know some amazing things about these places, so always within. Visitors to Florida, they 're surprisingly agile creatures the Keys views here the key unlocking! The local alligator trapper to remove one like they would if it looks its! Everyone 's potential unlocking everyone 's potential can make money with a 3D.. From the crowds for where to kayak out of the more popular areas in Central Florida that are of! Some amazing things about these places, so always be aware of your surroundings and approach. 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