Alligators abound in Bluffton!
Alligators go into a semi-hibernation period during the coldest months of the year. They come out of their dens in the spring, especially in March and April, when the days are warmer. They spread out on the banks of lagoons, soaking up the sun’s warmth. And, it’s time for alligators to find a mate.
An iconic image of the Lowcountry, the American alligator is a much-loved favorite for visitors and locals to spot. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve on Hilton Head Island is a wonderful place to observe these animals in their natural environment. Another great place to see these reptiles is on the golf greens. This time of year, the banks of the Bluffton’s many courses are lined with gators catching some rays.
Alligators are ectothermic (cold blooded), so heat plays a major role in their bodily functions.
Digestion and anabolic activity are all reliant on their ability to absorb and maintain body heat. If the animal has absorbed too much heat in the middle of summer, they will dive to the bottom of the lakes, burrow into the mud and slow their heart rate, so as to not burn up the oxygen in their system. Alligators often stay submerged for long periods of time, and stay underwater for over an hour.
An apex predator, the alligator’s diet consists of fish, birds and turtles. However, they are scavengers and will eat anything they can find, even something dead and decaying! Because alligators have high levels of stomach acid, they can eat food that other animals, such as humans, find fouled or contaminated. This extraordinary adaptation is a critical aspect of survival for these creatures.
Like other reptiles, alligators do not have to eat as much as warm-blooded animals.
Depending on their environment’s temperature, they can go long periods without eating. However, they are also capable of taking down large animals of prey. Visitors or people unfamiliar with the alligator species should proceed with caution, because they can be very dangerous to humans.
For the first year or so of an alligator’s life, momma gators will be especially protective of their babies. If you see a young alligator sunning itself this month, do not approach it. There is a good chance that its mother is close by.
The American Alligator is a precious natural resource that at one time was considered rare and endangered. Due to conservation efforts and education of the humans who share the same ecosystem and environment, alligators’ numbers continue to rise.
By Anthony R. Savarese
H2O Sports in Harbour Town is a great place to spark curiosity and inspire learning through adventure in all ages. To make reservations for the Alligator and Wildlife Tour call (843) 671-4386. For details on other water activities offered by H2O Sports, visit h2osports.com.
