Seeing an alligator in its natural environment is an exciting experience! For your own safety, it's important not to get too caught up in the moment to remember to keep a reasonable distance between you and the alligator.

You should also never feed an alligator. Alligators tend to be shy and fearful of humans by nature, but can become a safety issue if they are habituated to being fed by people. It is unlawful for anyone to intentionally feed an alligator. If you know of someone poaching, harming, harassing or intentionally feeding alligators in North Carolina, please call our Wildlife Enforcement Hotline at 1-800-662-7137.

You can also find more helpful tips on coexisting with alligators here.