There are 44,497 recorded sightings of American Alligator in Florida, with 8,879 observations documented in the past 12 months. Local sightings are most frequently reported in January through April.
When to See American Alligator in Florida
Most often reported in January through April.
| Month | Recorded Sightings | Peak Month |
|---|---|---|
| January | 4,207 | Yes |
| February | 4,489 | Yes |
| March | 6,660 | Yes |
| April | 5,822 | Yes |
| May | 3,550 | No |
| June | 2,533 | No |
| July | 0 | No |
| August | 0 | No |
| September | 1,953 | No |
| October | 2,900 | No |
| November | 2,955 | No |
| December | 3,779 | No |
Compared With Other Regions
Explore how American Alligator sightings in Florida compare to other North American hubs:
A heavy, dark crocodilian with a broad, rounded, U-shaped snout, it is larger than the only other living alligator species, with adult males measuring 3.4 to 4.8 m. It lives in freshwater swamps, marshes, rivers and lakes of the south-eastern United States. Look for it basking on banks and logs on warm, sunny days, scan for eyeshine at night, and stay well away from the water's edge.
Other Wildlife to Look for in Florida
Track American Alligator in Florida
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see a American Alligator in Florida?
American Alligator is most often reported in Florida in January through April, based on GBIF records. Reports partly reflect when more people are outdoors, so sightings in other months are possible.
Where can I see a American Alligator in Florida?
There are 44,497 documented American Alligator records in Florida. Parks, refuges and protected areas with suitable habitat are the best places to start; the charts above show when it's reported most.
How can I find American Alligator sightings near me in Florida?
Use the WildMap app on iOS to see recent reports within 100 km from the past 7 days for free (WildMap Pro: 200 km and 30 days), and turn on alerts for sightings near you in Florida.