Book 32, Question 137
Why is it best not to feed wild alligators, turtles, and lizards?
Feeding wild animals may seem kind, but it can hurt them.
Alligators and crocodiles that are fed can lose their fear of people, which makes them unsafe. Turtles and lizards fed human snacks can get sick, since their bodies need natural foods. In many places it is also against the law. The best way to help wild reptiles is to leave them alone.
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Quick answers
Why is it best not to feed wild alligators, turtles, and lizards?
Normally, alligators avoid humans, but alligators that have been fed by humans will move toward humans and can become aggressive.
Source: University of Florida
More fun facts
- Alligators have a natural fear of humans and usually quickly retreat when approached by people.
- Alligators overcome their natural shyness and become accustomed or attracted to humans when fed.
- Don’t swim at night or during dusk or dawn when alligators most actively feed.
- Alligators less than 4 feet long are naturally fearful of humans and are generally not a threat.
- Alligators that have been fed by humans are dangerous and should be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
- Whereas alligators prefer freshwater, crocodiles occur almost exclusively in the marine and brackish coastal waters of extreme southern Florida.
Sources: wlf.louisiana.gov, University of Florida
Questions kids ask
How close should you get to a wild alligator?
View and photograph wild alligators from a safe distance of at least 50 feet.
Source: wlf.louisiana.gov