There are good reasons to celebrate May 29 as National Alligator Day, say researchers.

American alligators are one of the largest beneficial predators that have stood the test of time balancing ecosystems. Yet, they’re largely misunderstood.

“Often sensationalized, these iconic reptiles are recognized by biologists and ecologists as indicators of ecosystem health that can signal environmental changes,” says Venetia Briggs-Gonzalez , a senior research biologist at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’ Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center (FLREC) and a member of The Croc Docs .

American alligators are found across the Southern United States, drawing attention throughout the year. In Florida, the Everglades, freshwater lakes, marshes, swamps, rivers, and canals teem with alligators.

“As humans, we enjoy a love-and-fear relationship with American alligators because they symbolize strength and survival, among other desirable qualities,” says Sergio Balaguera-Reina , a research scientist at FLREC and member of The Croc Docs. “We celebrate and raise awareness of these modern-day archosaurs because of their critical roles and the need for continued conservation efforts.”

The Croc Docs offer these five key insights on what American alligators tell us and why we should appreciate them:

1. Alligators are ecosystem engineers

They dig holes, making ponds in marshes that retain water as the surrounding marsh dries out. “This behavior provides a home for other aquatic species and food for predators such as large fish, wading birds, otters, and alligators,” says Frank Mazzotti , professor of wildlife ecology at FLREC who leads The Croc Docs.

2. Alligator survival isn’t guaranteed

Human interference and water management practices designed to support a growing human population have created habitat loss and altered wetland quality. “This has had a direct impact on alligator populations. Research tells us that American alligators in Florida are growing slower, surviving less, and have reduced their reproductive output in areas of disturbance ,” said Balaguera-Reina.

3. Alligators are good indicators of habitat restoration

Because alligators are doing so poorly in the Everglades, we expect them to respond positively to ecosystem restoration informing us of restoration progress.

4. Alligators can eat invasive species

Alligators can prey on invasive species but are sometimes preyed upon by Burmese pythons. Their ability to control invasive species will depend upon populations sizes and colocation.

5. Gators are smart and curious

Did you know that alligators are less aggressive than many other species of crocodylians? Their ability to remember things like sources of food is surprisingly well developed. If they see movement in the water, they will approach the source simply because they are curious. Always respect their space.

Source: University of Florida

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