The Cold Blooded News The Newsletter of the Colorado Herpetological Society Volume 28, Number 2;   February, 2001

If You're Going to Florida . . .

'GATOR WARNING

The Florida State Department of Fish and Wildlife is advising hikers, hunters, fishers, and golfers to take extra precautions and keep alert for alligators while in Osceola, Polk, Manatee, Orange, and Dade Counties.

They advise people to wear noise-producing devices such as little bells on their clothing to alert but not startle the alligators unexpectedly. They also advise the carrying of pepper spray in case of an encounter with an alligator.

It is also a good idea to watch for fresh signs of alligator activity. People should recognize the difference between small young alligator and large adult alligator droppings. Young alligator droppings are smaller and contain fish bones and possible bird feathers. Adult alligator droppings have little bells in them and smell like pepper spray.

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