The Alligator

Alligators can be a problem to poultry owners that live adjacent to wetlands in warm climates---such as the southern United States. They are most active during the spring and summer months and go dormant when temperatures drop below 55 °F (13 °C). Alligators are carnivores and eat whatever creatures that are readily available---this usually includes fish, mammals, turtles, birds and other alligators however they are also known for killing livestock and pets, even full grown cows and horses. Although the alligator has a heavy body and a slow metabolism, it is capable of short bursts of speed, especially in very short distances.

Alligators are mainly a concern for poultry owners that live adjacent to the water where alligators are commonly found. They can be found in almost any type of fresh water source--lagoons, ponds, streams, canals, lakes, coastal impoundments, marshes, rivers, swamps, and waterways. They primarily hunt for food at dusk or at night. Alligators often lay motionless, waiting for prey