This American Alligator was one of 15 or 20 that I spotted lounging along the banks of the waterways of Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive the other day.
“American alligators are large crocodilians found only in the United States. They can grow to be more than 12 feet (3.6 meters) in length and weigh as much as 1,000 pounds (450 kilograms), with males being slightly larger than females on average. The animal’s dark skin is armored with small, bony scales called scutes”(National Wildlife Federation).
“Alligators are ectothermic (cold blooded). They regulate their body temperature by basking in the sun or moving to areas with warmer or cooler air or water temperatures” (Florida Fish and Wildlife) Although they appear sluggish and docile at rest, gators can be dangerous and move very fast when surprised or when they sense a threat to their nest or young.
Although I photographed this gator in Central Florida, “…perhaps no other animal is more closely identified with the Everglades than the American alligator.“ This National Park Service Species Profile includes more fascinating information about this important keystone species.
Birder's Journey 
A superb reflection captured BJ, and your alligator, similar to our Crocodile is not a creature to become to friendly with.
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Thanks so much, AB. Sadly, people in our parks and wetlands too often need to be reminded of this. There are locations with signs posted that warn “A FED gator is a DEAD gator!”, directed at those who are inclined to toss food to gators! Public awareness is so critical.
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Nice reflection.
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Thank you, David. I confess I didn’t even realize how distinct the reflection was till after I’d snapped the picture. ☺️
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Great catch. Always fun to photograph.
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Thanks. Ted! I always enjoy your many-faceted ‘gator posts!!
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The reflection is great! I’m glad you were on the other side of the pond
though! 😮😀
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Lol, thanks so much Deborah! Yes it was comforting to know that most of the gators were on the other side of the water from where I was!
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😀
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Lake Apopka is a terrific resource to explore!
Nice photo of a member of the welcoming committee.
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Haha! Good way to describe them, Wally! Yes, Lake Apopka is a great spot. Have you been there?
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