Wildlife / Alligators

There's an alligator.

Alligators live across the eastern third of Texas, and just seeing one doesn't make it a problem - they belong in our wetlands. They're protected by state law (and federally, for looking like the endangered American crocodile).

The rules that keep everyone safe

• -It's illegal to kill, harass, or move an alligator - and illegal to feed one (in a state park that's a Class C misdemeanor, up to a $500 fine). Feeding is exactly how a normal gator becomes a dangerous 'nuisance' gator.
• -Keep your distance - at least 30 feet. A hiss means you're too close; back away. They can outrun or outswim a person for the first 30 feet, so they're fast on land too.
• -Swim only in designated areas and only in daylight - gators are most active at dawn and dusk, and swimming areas close at sunset.
• -Protect pets: keep dogs on a leash no longer than 6 feet and away from the water's edge. To a gator, a dog looks like food.
• -Don't fish near one. If a gator goes for your bait or catch, cut the line; use a bucket, not a stringer at your side.
• -If a gator has lost its fear of people, or is somewhere dangerous (a yard, pool, road, playground), don't deal with it yourself - tell a park employee or call TPWD law enforcement at (512) 389-4848.