Species Reptiles & AmphibiansAmerican Alligator

American Alligator

Alligator mississippiensis

CommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis)
Safety note: Dangerous — maintain safe distance

The American Alligator is the largest reptile in North America, inhabiting freshwater wetlands across the southeastern U.S. Adults can exceed 13 feet in length. A conservation success story, recovered from near extinction through protection.

Habitat
Freshwater swamps, marshes, rivers, and lakes
Diet
Fish, turtles, birds, mammals, and carrion
How common
Common

Best time to see a American Alligator

The best time to see a American Alligator is January–June, when about 66% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 98,429 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent American Alligator sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

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