Sanibel Island is an incredible place to experience nature. There is a huge commitment to conservation and the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is the largest, private landowner on the island. They manage over 1200 acres of conserved land.  There are numerous nature trails to explore and a huge wildlife refuge. The J.N “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge is 6,400 Acres of preserved and undeveloped mangrove ecosystem land. It is a celebration of nature at its finest. Among the fascinating animals and birds to observe is the mighty Alligator. These feared but fascinating creatures are common on the island. We can tell you how to appreciate these mighty creatures safely, respectfully, and responsibly.


Appreciating Florida Alligators


Alligators on Sanibel are very interesting creatures that have been roaming the earth since prehistoric times. They outlasted dinosaurs! They are native to Mexico, China, and the United States. Florida is one of their favorite habitats, of course! It’s the sunshine state! They are often spotted on Sanibel (though rarely on Captiva) which is a wonderful habitat for them as much as it is a great vacation spot for us They are a protected species and given the percentage of conservation land on the island are a common sight that is to be celebrated. Sadly, there was a time they almost became extinct. There are many misconceptions about Alligators but they are still dangerous and as humans, we have to behave respectfully and sensibly towards them.


Tips


– Never feed Alligators, this will cause them to lose their natural fear of humans and associate humans with food. It is also illegal.

– Stay 50 feet away from an Alligator, though they may seem lethargic, they can move fast and run up to 35 mph especially during the warmer summer months.

– Do not swim in water inhabited by Alligators.

– Do not harass Alligators in any manner.

– If fishing, throw fish scraps away into trash cans, not the water.

– Swim in the daytime, Alligators are most active at night.

– Never let small children play by themselves near freshwater.

– Do not let your small pets, such as dogs drink from or swim in, freshwater.


Myths About Alligators


– If an Alligator is chasing you RUN STRAIGHT. The myth that they can’t catch you if you run in a zig zag is not true. Contrary to popular belief, they have good eyesight and, their blind spot is in front of their nose.

– Alligators, if they have been left alone, will generally not attack you. Though they are extremely territorial creatures, they do not like humans and will leave you alone if you leave them alone.

– Alligators can climb and quite well, just something to be aware of.


Where To Spot Alligators On Sanibel


There are several places to spot Alligators on Sanibel and, they are most active in the warmer months.

J.N “Ding” Darling Wildlife Refuge – There are often Alligator spottings on the Indigo trail/Wildlife drive, keep your eyes open for groups of people huddled around staring, this is usually a sign of a Gator spotting!

Golf Courses – The 2 best golf courses to Gator spot are The Dunes and Sanibel Island Golf Club.

Pond Apple Trail –  1159 Causeway Road. Attached to the Shipley Trail and close to the Bailey Homestead.

Pond nearby Baileys General Store.


The Only Gator Bite You Want!


GatorBites Tail & Ale
20351 Summerlin Rd, Fort Myers, FL 33908
239-267-1317
Visit Gatorbites Website

The only Gator bite you want is just over the causeway offering great food, excellent service, live entertainment, and a large outdoor patio.

Guide to Sanibel Restaurants
Guide to Captiva Restaurants
Guide To Waterfront Dining

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