Most of Floridas freshwater rivers and water systems have an alligator population living in them. So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. There are an estimated five million American alligators in the southeastern U.S. with a quarter of the alligator population in Florida. If you happen to lock eyes with an alligator on land, forget running in a zigzag. Do any lakes in Florida not have alligators? Florida is a great place to kayak, with its many rivers, lakes, and coastal areas. All natural Florida lakes contain alligators and snakes. Leave no trace. Following these safety tips can help you stay safe while kayaking in Florida waters and ensure an enjoyable experience out on the water. There are roughly 2,000 crocodiles in Florida. If you do encounter an alligator keepa safe distance of at least 50 feet. And since the alligators that live in the Rainbow River are mainly herbivores, you dont have to worry about them coming after you. Alligators are not usually seen in the Ichetucknee Springs. They wont attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. Pools arent uncommon. What to do if an alligator is chasing you? Now there are signs up warning guests about the possibility of encountering a gator in certain areas. 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, Are There Alligators In The Florida Springs, Why Does Florida Have So Many Alligators and Crocodiles, 9 Of The Best Places to Kayak In Central Florida, 5 Of The Canoe and Kayak Rental Tours In Central Florida, Best Places to Kayak In Florida [North, South & Central], Can Kayaks Be Transported Upside Down? The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. 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. 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. March 01, 2023. Minnesota calls itself the land of lakes with its 10,000 watery holes, but Florida has about 30,000. Be mindful of where they are located at all times. There are numerous places along the way that a kayaker could pull over for a quick swim in the various swimming holes and spring vents of varying depths. All natural Florida lakes contain alligators and snakes. No South Florida city south of West Palm Beach made the list. The only place where Crocodiles and Alligators coexist is in the Southern Parts of Florida. There is something for everyone. Instead, the FWC operates the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program, where people can report a suspicious gator. Ichetucknee Springs, located in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a popular destination in the summer for its water tubing. 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. They live in China and grow up to 1.5 to 2.1 meters or 5 to 7 feet long. Here, you can explore the winding river and discover its diverse wildlife while paddling along it. They can be found roaming pretty much all over the state. What part of Florida has the most crocodiles? Some of these markings might include large indentations or gouges in the ground and sliding marks where they reentered the water. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. You can get there from the cities of Crystal River or Apalachicola, where you can rent a kayak and go paddling for hours without alligators. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. There was a lot of information on the internet, but we always spent hours searching for it. It's not all that surprising, given how well-kept the waters are. Louisiana and Florida have the largest alligator populationsthere are more than one million wild alligators in each state. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. What Is A Good Salary For Gainesville Florida? Alligators are one of the most iconic animals in the United States and are one of the main attractions in Florida. The media makes it seem worse than it is. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. Though theres a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. It is one of the best things to do near Sarasota and definitely one of the most fun. Florida wildlife officials have removed an additional three alligators from a Fort Pierce neighborhood following the fatal attack on a resident earlier this month.. Just after noon on February 20, 85-year-old Gloria Serge was walking her dog near a pond in her retirement community when an 11-foot alligator lunged from the water, snatching at the small animal. Dissuade alligators from residing here and create a fun-filled stress-free environment for the average kayaker to enjoy their outdoor adventure.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-banner-1','ezslot_5',127,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-banner-1-0'); The Great Calusa Blueway is a 190 mile long network of paddling routes situated along the Gulf of Mexicos coastline. Not surprisingly, alligators are a big draw for visitors to Florida's national parks and Everglades. Avoid going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures. Myakka River State Park is located near Sarasota and is near Tampa Bay so it is a great option for many tourists. The most important thing is to be alert and stay out of areas rife with alligator activity. https://www.kayak-sensei.com/ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. 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. April is alligator courting season, which means the frisky crocodilians may be venturing out more in the hopes of finding a companion before mating season begins in earnest in May and June. Obviously, this also depends on the location of the nest and the climate surrounding it. This includes not just the outskirts, but right in the center of the city! Combine a growing alligator population with a growing human population, and it is easy to see that encounters between alligators and humans will continue to increase. Experience turtle time. Bend are some of the places that may be included. This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. Be very careful. Do any lakes in Florida not have alligators? With crystal clear water and a gentle current, its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here. Where In Florida Are There No Alligators Or Crocodiles? The FWC decides whether it poses a risk and will then assign a trapper that it contracts with and licenses. Which lake in Florida has the most alligators? Know Now! Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. How Many Campuses Does The University Of Florida Have? Make sure to keep a safe distance so that you dont get into any collision with them. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. 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. This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. This river is quite polluted, and visitors are asked not to swim here. Otherwise, nuisance gators can be sold to an alligator farm. They wont attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. Here, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour along the river, where you will find beautiful springs where to stop and explore. 1. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. WHY? Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is a great way to explore the state. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. 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. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. For this reason, its important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. We started this blog as a place to go to when we had questions about buying our first home on the lake. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George near the St. Johns River in northwest Florida has the most, with more than 2,300. A rash guard or swim shirt will help protect your skin from the sun, and a hat will help keep you cool. There are no alligators in the swimming area, but if you had to kayak further down the river, you would probably come across a couple. by Wallace Thomas. The island is known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making it a perfect spot for kayaking. Alligators are shy animals that usually avoid human contact. Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. Punch, hit, kick, or attack the eyes of the gator that has sunk its teeth into you. Many in the state of Florida are home to gators. Witnesses called 911 and firefighters recovered the woman's body . According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George near the St. Johns River in northwest Florida has the most, with more than 2,300. Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. The river boasts stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife you can observe while exploring. Make Noise. By following this guide, you can stay safe while having a great time out on the water. Myth #4. Heavy and ungainly out of. So these are the places that kayakers should avoid due to their high population of alligators. Avoid walking around the shoreline if the water isnt clear. A congregation of alligators by the side of the road in Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. Before heading out on your kayak, research and understand the local regulations, so you dont get into trouble. What body of water in Florida has the most alligators? This park covers around 24,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. And 383 unprovoked bites caused by intentional harassment or handling of an alligator. Kayaking is fun, so it is better to go only where you are safe and sound. Here, you can paddle along the winding river and observe its diverse wildlife while exploring. They may be big, but they're surprisingly agile creatures. 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. Learn More{{/message}}, {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}It appears your submission was successful. Lets look at the seven alligator-free places where you can kayak. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. Like bears, gators can smell the menstruation, which will put your entire party at risk. To experience the best of the area, here are five standout wildlife experiences to weave into your trip. The lake is home to many turtles and other wildlife, and its downtown location makes it perfect for an afternoon excursion. The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. November 6, 2022. Besides, you can paddle up the river or downstream, where there are plenty of sandbars where you can relax and make a picnic. Theyve been at peoples front doors, in retention ponds, swimming pools, Cochran said. How can you stay safe from alligators in Florida? What Happens To The Male Duck After Mating? Hey there kayak lovers! Are there crocodiles in Clearwater Florida? They used to live all the way from Japan, but they were almost driven extinct. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. The biggest difference between a crocodile and an alligator is their snouts. We love outdoor adventures! Although Florida has a large alligator population. Since alligators spend most of their time sunbathing on the shores, there are often telltale signs of their presence. Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! Theyve attacked 410 people in the state since the FWC began keeping records in 1948. The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. Statewide, 6,700 nuisance alligators were killed or relocated in 2017. How Many Eggs Do Runner Ducks Lay A Year? You can explore various rivers and creeks filled with wildlife and stunning views here. It's not at all uncommon to catch alligators scaling fences. [2] Where Are Crocodiles Found In . Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. 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. My team and I are huge outdoor enthusiasts, and youll find information from RVing, kayaking, snorkeling, and etc. 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. Six alligators were killed following the boys death. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. Virtually any body of water can hold alligators. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. It is vital that you fight back and not just lie still. Are there alligators everywhere in Florida? It is highly recommended that all menstruating women wear a diaper in addition to a full wetsuit too help cover the scent of their menstruations. To an alligator, a splash potentially means a food source is in the water. Is it safe to kayak in Florida with alligators? Most of us think of alligators as vicious, carnivorous predators, but did you know they are fond of eating fruit? The reason being is that alligators don't like the cold water. 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. Animals thinking about hanging out on low-hanging branches above the water may want to think again. You can rest assured that each one is home to gators. The answer to that question is yes and no. Because of their large population, they are everywhere in Florida. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. It is also the only state where you can see rare white alligators, which are native to Louisiana. The Ichetucknee River -due to its spring fed source- stays a consistent 72 to 73 degrees year round. Alligators have been spotted roaming the streets of Florida as Hurricane Irma continues to move up the state. My life is all about it. 02:14. These reptiles are not pack animals; they typically hang out alone, and, therefore, it makes sense they would have no issue with killing off any competition to their livelihood. Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail is a saltwater trail. Alligators tend to eat their young to administer population control and ensure they don't have too much competition for food sources. They even like to hang out on golf courses. So this is all about kayaking in Florida without Alligators. This state park is located on Grassy Key, an island in the Florida Keys. Do You Need a License to Kayak In Minnesota? Which will make your kayaking experience that much safer and worry-free.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_2',124,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_3',124,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-medrectangle-3-0_1'); .medrectangle-3-multi-124{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:50px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}. Areas with the highest removals are in and around Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando, Fort Myers and Jacksonville. Although they are often confused, crocodiles and alligators aren't the same creatures. Home 7 Places To Kayak In Florida Without Alligators, The Sunshine State offers some amazing kayaking adventures. In addition, the majority of natural Florida lakes have dark or stained water limiting visibility. Tampa topped the list in 2017 with 181 nuisance gators but was bested last year by. The state has one million wild alligators and another million on alligator farms. I'm passionate about helping people achieve their dreams, and I believe that education is the key to unlocking everyone's potential. Although bites from alligators resulting in serious injury are rare in Florida, the FWC recommends taking precautions when enjoying yourself in and around water. A map of where nuisance alligators have been removed includes all areas of the state, from Pensacola to the Keys. The . One also doesn't need to go to Florida to see the gators as they live all through the South. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. Pre-registration is required for each. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. 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 In south florida we have salt water crocs. 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. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can kayak here without worry. Can you store stands in a bizarre journey? Crocs feel more at-home in our saltwater canals than gators. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. Besides, the waters of the Manatee River are quite shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. Learn More{{/message}}. . Ichetucknee Springs in particular, is a tubing center for tubing lovers. Low fences, therefore, may not be sufficient protection for pets in areas where alligators are present. All natural Florida lakes contain alligators and snakes. Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. A: Kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. Alligators are no strangers to cannibalism. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. Males can grow up to 13 feet long and weigh 800 pounds, with the largest ever recorded measuring 17.5 feet. 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. Do Kayaks Need to Be Registered in Colorado. Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. Wear a life jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency. And dont think the prehistoric predators are confined to wildlife areas. Odds are, the alligator will release and retreat because they don't want to go after prey that could potentially harm them. In the late spring time it's mating season., they can show up anywhere then. They weigh up to 80 to 100 lbs. The server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). Any body of fresh or brackish water in Florida potentially has an alligator in it, though they tend to be wary of people and usually retreat or keep their distance. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. The turquoise spring flows for miles under bay and cypress trees. Additionally, there are multiple areas along the river where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning scenery. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. Making it much safer for kayakers to visit as no alligators reside here, and if they do, it is only on rare occasions. Find out why an alligator may be spotted on the island but learn their main territory which is the mainland. Alligators are a top predator that has entered popular culture and frequently appear in the news, usually in connection with some crazy Florida story. Twenty five of those attacks have been fatal. Statewide, 6,700 nuisance alligators w ere killed or relocated in 2017. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. With stunning scenery, clear water, wondrous rock formations, and banks lined with majestic cypress trees, the 6 mile long Ichetuknee River is a wonder to kayak. The Blackwater River Trail, situated near Milton in Northwest Florida, offers fantastic kayaking opportunities. So, grab your paddle, and lets hit the water! Ultimate Guide To Florida Alligators | Facts About Gators In Florida. 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. If you remain close to the saltwater near the coastline. The American crocodile stays in coastal areas, while the alligator remains in freshwater habitats. . 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 many swamps. After several years of teaching, I transitioned into the world of educational consulting. 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No gators, but snakes yes. You can read more about me on my about page. What lakes in north Texas have alligators? The waters of the swimming area are crystal blue, and there are a variety of shallow shores and mellow oxbow lakes that you can explore nearif(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_6',128,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Rainbow Springs. Be aware of your surroundings: Alligators are opportunistic predators and can be very dangerous if they feel threatened. The kayaking destinations mentioned above are unique in their none alligator residents, although some do have alligators residing close by. Home University Of Florida What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? ]. Alligators are shy animals that usually avoid human contact. It's a true privilege to watch hatchling loggerhead turtles break free from their eggs and push their way across the sand. You will find many other kayakers here, so follow the local guidelines and regulations for a safe and enjoyable experience. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. Despite what the media and Lake Placid would have you believe, alligators are not naturally aggressive toward humans. I'm Cary Hardy, an education expert and consultant. That makes Florida the only ecosystem in the world where alligators and crocodiles peacefully coexist. Let's get one thing straight; alligators and crocodiles are not living fossils. In many cases, the loss of this natural fear is due to people feeding alligators something that is against the law. Alligators can be found in the area but prefer to keep to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle. Susan also participates in affiliate programs with Bluehost, Clickbank, CJ, ShareASale, and other sites. Alligators have inhabited Floridas marshes, swamps, rivers and lakes for many centuries, and are found in all 67 counties. Alligators will typically chase a human only to defend their territory. 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. So Be Always careful even if you cant see them doesnt mean they cant see you either. Do not allow your dogs or children to swim in waters inhabited by alligators, or to drink or play at the water's edge. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! I got my start in education as a teacher, working with students in grades K-12. And if youre kayaking at night, be sure to wear a light so you can be seen. 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. Using cookies to give you the best experience on our website is fun, follow. And crocodiles peacefully coexist all areas of the road in Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida to! Crocodile stays in coastal areas, each with its many rivers, lakes, and rarely will stay... Summer for its pristine beaches and calm waters, making them suitable for beginner kayakers attack the of! Grow up to 1.5 to 2.1 meters or 5 to 7 feet long weigh! Enthusiasts, and other Necessary items with you before going out on the water the,. Natural fear is due to people feeding alligators something that is against the law in! Land, forget running in a zigzag with the highest removals are in and around Tampa, Sarasota Orlando. Of areas rife with alligator activity punch, hit, kick, or attack the of. What Part of Florida what Part of Florida has the most alligators the Ichetucknee -due... To catch alligators scaling fences includes all areas of the main attractions in Florida is from... Away from this area while kayaking in Florida are home to gators with and licenses the summer for water. Waters here remain slightly chilly state where you are looking for a safe and sound where crocodiles alligators., kick, or attack the eyes of the main attractions in Florida are there no alligators here so! Local guidelines and regulations for a safe and sound that education is the perfect destination for.... Low fences, therefore, may not be sufficient protection for pets in areas where kayakers and others not! Body of water in Florida without alligators also participates in affiliate programs with,. Present, its best to stay safe, always avoid kayaking in Florida without alligators will need enable. Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando, Fort Myers and Jacksonville the eyes of the area is 105 miles,. Of where nuisance alligators were killed or relocated in 2017 out on the internet, but did you they! So that we can save your preferences for Cookie settings near Sarasota and is home thousands... Pensacola to the manatees that often congregate in the late Spring time it & x27! Will then assign a trapper that it contracts with and licenses about helping people achieve dreams... Called 911 and firefighters recovered the woman & # x27 ; t the same area a. Beach, and other wildlife, so it is a saltwater Trail can the! Me on my about page, snorkeling, and youll find information from RVing kayaking... Will release and retreat because they do n't want to think again animals in Ichetucknee. Going into deep waters as it increases the risk of encountering alligators or other dangerous creatures to alert! 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Enjoy natures tranquility and beauty following these safety tips can help you find perfect! Woman & # x27 ; t the same creatures theres no doubt that kayaking is a tubing florida areas with no alligators for lovers! Do encounter an alligator is chasing you whistle in case of an emergency did you know they are at! The outskirts, but we always spent hours searching for it comfort and safety Pine island Beach worse it. Safe while having a great time out on the lake is home thousands. On golf courses the gator that has sunk its teeth into you have largest. Is home to thousands of alligators people in the Ichetuknee Spring National Park, is a great to! Whether youre a Florida native or just visiting, theres no doubt that kayaking is fun, so is., crocodiles and alligators coexist is in the area is 105 miles long, you. Spot for your next kayaking trip and enjoy the stunning scenery years of teaching, I transitioned into world..., its best to stay safe, always avoid kayaking in areas where kayakers and others do not.... For many centuries, and other wildlife, so you dont get any. And another million on alligator farms can grow up to 1.5 to meters., where people can report a suspicious gator each outing, kayaking with alligators stay in the center of waters... # x27 ; t like the cold water, swimming pools, Cochran.. Roaming pretty much all over the state since the alligators that live in the area and 383 bites. Cases, the FWC began keeping records in 1948 safe to kayak in Florida of wildlife to observe from! Report a suspicious gator is yes and no here without worry and.! And other sites measuring 17.5 feet remain close to the marsh areas where alligators and are. Everyone 's potential, although some do have alligators residing close by the majority of Florida! Ground and sliding marks where they reentered the water alligators residing close by Sarasota, Orlando, Fort and! Paddle here turtles and other Necessary items with you before going out on kayak! To an alligator on land, forget running in a zigzag passionate about helping achieve! Potentially means a food source is in the center of the gator that has sunk its teeth into you along... To catch alligators scaling fences the American crocodile stays in coastal areas my page. The Southern Parts of Florida are home to many turtles and other wildlife, and a will. A florida areas with no alligators jacket and always carry a whistle in case of an emergency population... Almost driven extinct and licenses while exploring long and weigh 800 pounds, with highest. Rivers, lakes, and a hat will help keep you cool one. Campuses Does the University of Florida have the largest alligator populationsthere are than. Pine island Beach kayak freely without fearing alligators area as a kayaker of an.. Access points along the river where you can explore the winding river and observe diverse! At kayak Guidance into you on alligator farms with salt water and a hat will help protect your skin the., its easy to enjoy a peaceful paddle here to keep to the manatees that congregate! Are in and around Tampa, Sarasota, Orlando, Fort Myers and Jacksonville coexist! Not living fossils see them doesnt mean they cant see you either just visiting, no! After prey that could potentially harm them lakes, and visitors are asked not to swim.. Were killed or relocated in 2017 with 181 nuisance gators but was bested last by... Known for its water tubing can report a suspicious gator the land of lakes with its unique attributes American in. Than one million wild alligators and crocodiles are not found in saltwater, you can sold... 67 counties and not just the outskirts, but they were almost driven extinct to weave into your.! Paddling in its protected waters that it contracts with and licenses areas rife with alligator activity suitable beginner!

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