When were crocodiles introduced to Florida?

When were crocodiles introduced to Florida?

The crocodile was first sighted by early settlers in the late 1800s in Biscayne Bay. Historically, crocodiles were observed in coastal areas between the present day locales of Key West in the south, Lake Worth in the north, on the east coast and Naples, and Sanibel Island on the West Coast.

Is the American crocodile native to Florida?

Of the 23 different species of crocodilians in the world, 2 species are native to the United States, and south Florida is the only place where both of these species coexist. …

How did crocodiles get in the Everglades?

That means they probably were brought to Florida illegally by an unlicensed reptile collector who either didn’t contain them properly, allowing them to escape, or, more sinisterly, planted them in the Everglades in hopes they would multiply.

How many American crocodiles are in Florida?

There are now about 2,000 American Crocodiles living in South Florida, perhaps more than ever existed here prior to their discovery.

Is it illegal to kill a crocodile in Florida?

Under Florida law, it is illegal to kill, injure, capture, possess an alligator or its eggs or to attempt to do any of those things without a permit. In addition, the law allows wildlife officials to seize any weapons, vehicles or other equipment used in the violation following a successful conviction in the case.

Why is it illegal to kill alligators in Florida?

It wasn’t until 1973 that alligators were listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. Now, currently listed as a species of special concern, without the proper license, you could face a felony for capturing and keeping an alligator or its eggs.

How do I protect my dog from alligators?

He adds that if you live in alligator territory, “don’t walk pets along the edges of lakes, ponds or wetlands that might be home to these large reptiles, or let pets roam outside unattended, especially at night when alligators are most active. If you spot an alligator, simply move away from it.”

Do alligators break into houses?

In 2017, a Florida golf course made headlines after a massive 800-pound alligator moseyed across the green. The 11-foot-long gator broke into the home through some low windows in the kitchen. The homeowner called police and a trapper also responded to the scene.