Alligator activity on the rise

BRUNSWICK COUNTY (WWAY) — As temperatures rise across southeastern North Carolina, wildlife officials say alligators are becoming more active — and in some cases, showing up in unexpected places.

From front porches to underneath vehicles, recent sightings have prompted concern among residents. The Southport Police Department recently responded to two separate calls involving alligators that had ventured a little too close for comfort.

Experts say the increase in sightings is typical this time of year.

John Henry Harrelson, a District 4 wildlife biologist with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission who covers the southeastern region, said alligator activity is currently at its peak due to mating season.

Harrelson said male alligators are on the move searching for females, while smaller alligators may also relocate to avoid larger ones. He added that current drought conditions could be contributing to more frequent movement as water sources shrink.

“Alligators are out right now because it’s mating season, so that means little alligators are getting out of the way of big alligators, and then also with the drought we have some restricted water bodies, so some places that typically have water and would be holding animals, right now they’re drying up, and so some of these animals are out looking for water in other places and it’s leading to some of these interactions we’re seeing,” said Harrelson.

Wildlife officials are reminding the public to take precautions when encountering alligators. They advise residents to always assume alligators may be present near bodies of water, never feed, harass, or attempt to capture them, and avoid disposing of food or fish scraps in the water. Officials also recommend keeping pets under control and staying alert when near lakes, ponds, and other waterways.