One of the most exciting experiences you’ll have while on a tour with Peace River Charters is our alligator encounters! Take a trip with us, and you’ll spot several prehistoric creatures traveling the river by airboat or swamp buggy. Afterward, stop at our petting zoo and hold a baby gator. Recreational outings on a gator’s home turf can be both exciting and safe when you respect how they live and take a few necessary safety precautions.
The American Alligator
The American Alligator primarily lives throughout Florida and Louisiana. However, these toothy creatures can also be found throughout the southeastern United States, including Texas and Oklahoma. Alligators prefer fresh water and can be spotted around rivers, ponds, swamps, canals, retention ponds, and even ditches. Males can grow over 18 feet long and weigh 1,000 pounds. They can regrow a tooth each time one is lost, making it possible for a gator to have nearly 3,000 teeth in a lifetime!
Avoid Unwanted Close Encounters
While alligator attacks are relatively rare, they do happen. Here’s what to know to avoid becoming their next snack:
- Do not feed an alligator. It is illegal to feed gators as it causes them to lose their natural fear of humans.
- Avoid swimming or wading in waters where large gators are known or likely to occur, especially at dusk when they naturally feed.
- Your kids and pets (especially dogs) look like prey to a gator. Do not let them explore the water’s edge.
- Take heed to literal warning signs. Don’t go in or walk near the shoreline if a warning sign is posted.
- If an alligator makes an aggressive charge, run fast and in a straight line away.
Enjoy Your Tour Safely
Going on a gator tour is exhilarating! Airboats are a safe way to experience the wide variety of wildlife on the Peace River, including alligators.
The best ways to protect yourself include staying alert, avoiding unsafe areas, and leaving gators alone. Book your next tour with the confidence that you’ll have only positive and safe experiences with our gators!
Come see what we’re all about! We’re located in DeSoto County, just a short drive from Sarasota, Venice, North Port, and Myakka City. Reserve your Airboat tour today.
See ya later, alligator.
