With alligator activity increasing throughout Florida’s waterways, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is urging residents and visitors to stay alert and “Be GatorWise.” The newly launched public awareness campaign is designed to encourage safer behaviors around alligators and provide consistent, science-backed guidance to reduce the risk of conflict.

As more people move to and visit areas near lakes, ponds, and other freshwater bodies, the potential for human-alligator interactions has grown. “Florida has seen tremendous population growth in recent years, with many people living or recreating near water,” said Matthew Nichols, FWC Alligator Management Program Coordinator. “Because alligators can be found in nearly any waterbody in Florida, it’s safest to always assume they’re present.”

GatorWise offers unified safety messaging developed in coordination with 11 wildlife agencies across the American alligator’s native range. The campaign aims to correct misconceptions and provide practical tips for coexisting with these important reptiles, which play a key role in maintaining healthy freshwater ecosystems.

Florida is home to approximately 1.3 million alligators. To help avoid dangerous encounters, the FWC recommends the following precautions:

  • Never feed or approach alligators.

  • Properly dispose of fish scraps.

  • Keep pets away from the water’s edge.

  • Always supervise small children near water.

  • Maintain a safe distance when an alligator is seen.

For more information and safety tips, visit GatorWise.org.