Local Gator? Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program - SNAP. FWC Alligator Management Program

This posting is in response to questions I have been receiving involving our local alligator population.

We have numerous alligators and even crocodiles traversing our local canals here in Palmetto Bay. 

There are some hard and fast rules regarding these reptiles.

First of all - it is illegal - as well as ill-advised to feed or molest any alligator or crocodile you may encounter.  Feeding will cause alligators to both become dependent upon humans for their food as well as leading them to lose their fear of humans. 

Second, please report any issues to the proper authorities who are legally set up to resolve any issues.  (I do ask to be copied on any reports to SFWMD and/or FWC -eflinn@palmettobay-fl.gov) 

Here is a link to the official FWC brochure: "A Guide to Living with Alligators"

Nuisance Alligator Hotline: 866-FWC-GATOR

I am referring you to the FWC web site.  Please review the SNAP program below:

The Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP) is administered by the FWC's Division of Hunting and Game Management. SNAP is one of five components of Florida’s comprehensive Alligator Management Program. Its mission is to address complaints concerning alligators.  

Persons with concerns about an alligator may call our toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286). Generally, an alligator may be deemed a nuisance if it is at least four feet in length and the caller believes it poses a threat to people, pets or property.

SNAP uses contracted nuisance alligator trappers throughout the state to remove alligators from locations where they are unwanted or unwelcome. If a complaint meets the qualifying criteria, SNAP will issue a permit to a contracted nuisance alligator trapper authorizing the removal of the animal.  

Complainants must be able to grant legal access to the property on which the alligator is located. SNAP does not permit the removal of nuisance alligators from private or publicly managed property without first obtaining permission from the property owner or management authority. 

In 2015, SNAP received 13,962 nuisance alligator complaints resulting in the removal of 7,513 nuisance alligators.

http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/alligator/nuisance/