Gators in Galveston!    

Gators galore in Galveston, Texas! After several alligator sightings on and around the island, bldg. 311 sat down with Katie St. Clair ‘07, Sea Life Facility Manager and lecturer in the marine biology department to talk about the crocodilian critters. 

Why are we seeing alligators around the island? Can they live in the saltwater? 

While American alligators are typically found in freshwater environments, it is not unusual to see adult alligators in the marshes or even off the beachfront. More than likely, the alligators are taking advantage of our rich estuarine ecosystems as hunting grounds, since a favorite prey item is blue crabs. Along with warmer temperatures moving into summer and alligators becoming more active, we are in the middle of their mating season, which runs through the end of June. Additionally, after heavy rainstorms there is increased freshwater inflows into Galveston Bay and alligators can get washed into the bay/Gulf of Mexico and we often see reports of alligators on the beach.

Why can saltwater crocodiles live in the saltwater but not alligators? 

Unlike saltwater crocodiles, alligators do not possess salt glands, which pumps the harmful salt out of their bodies, however, adult alligators can tolerate saltwater for short periods of time. Juvenile alligators do not possess this tolerance of saltwater and will become stressed when exposed to saltwater. This research was performed by Dr. Lene Petersen and her graduate students in the Sea Life Facility a couple of years ago.

Does Texas have saltwater crocodiles?

No, crocodiles are not found in Texas. The American crocodile can only be found in south Florida and throughout the Caribbean.

How do you tell the difference between an alligator and a crocodile?

Alligators have a wide, U-shaped snout, with only the top teeth visible when looking at the alligator from the side. Crocodiles have a narrow, V-shaped snout, with both the upper and lower teeth visible when looking at the crocodile from the side.

What other prey do alligators prefer?

Alligators are apex predators and are indiscriminate feeders. They will eat anything they can catch, such as fish, turtles, crayfish, frogs, birds and mammals (such as racoons, opossum, rabbits and even deer).

What should people do if they encounter an alligator?

Enjoy viewing the animal from a safe distance: at least 30 feet away. If you have a close encounter with an alligator, back up slowly. Alligators are not aggressive and typically retreat when encountered by humans; however, they will defend themselves if threatened or provoked. If the alligator becomes a nuisance, contact your local Texas Parks and Wildlife Department regional office for removal and relocation.

St. Clair said that “Most importantly, the difference between a crocodile and an alligator is that you will see alligators later and crocodiles in a while.”