Florida has crocodiles in some of its beaches.
I have seen quite a number of these reptiles during my vacations.
In addition, I have experienced these creators attack dogs and cats in different scenarios.
Therefore, you should have this information before you come to Florida.
Are there saltwater crocodiles in the Keys?
Yes, you can find saltwater crocodiles in the Florida Keys.
In Everglades, the alligator remains the most important predator.
Generally, alligators are crocodilians in the genus Alligator and are from the family Alligatoridae.
Two other species of alligators include:
- The American alligator
- The Chinese alligator
Alligator comes from the Spanish word for lizard, “el lagarto”, a term used by the first residents of Florida when they got in contact with them.
Are there saltwater crocodiles in the Keys?
Yes.
It is very possible to find American crocodiles in South Florida, often swimming in Keys canals.
In the 1970s, the number of alligators drastically decreased and became an end-age Reed species.
However, they became federally protected animals and since then there are now about 2,000 of these alligators residing in South Miami-Dade and Keys.
Here are some of the places you can find crocodiles:
Wekiwa Springs State Park
Covering over 7,000 acres of the natural area, including the stunning natural springs, Wekiwa Springs State Park is very famous amongst water sports enthusiasts for activities such as:
- swimming,
- kayaking,
- SUP paddle boarding
Around Wekiwa Springs State Park, there are a lot of native Florida animals, including alligators and their prey.
Alligators feed on land mammals such as deer, and rabbits, so you are likely to find them around this park.
In Wekiwa Springs state park, you can find many trails.
Some of these are:
- Paddling trails
- Hiking trails
- Bicycle trails and
- Equestrian trails
The Volksmarch trail is one of the best trails to spot alligators.
This trail is found along Sand Lake and has a good number of alligators basking in the sun, particularly during calm weather.
Wakulla Springs State Park
Located in Florida’s panhandle near Tallahassee, Wakulla Springs State Park is known to protect over 6,000 acres of the ecosystem in native Florida including many of the biggest natural springs in Florida.
In this park, you’ll find a variety of wildlife species and a very large population of alligators.
Some ecosystems here include:
- Pinewood Forests and
- Wetlands
Visitors in Wakulla can enjoy the various nature trails in this park.
If you’re interested in water sports, there are paddling trails available that allow you to explore the waterways through a canoe, kayak, or SUP paddle board.
St. Johns River
The St. Johns River is a very famous recreation area that is quite common amongst paddlers, boaters, and bird watchers. Stretching to a distance of 310 miles, this river is the longest in Florida. It is located on Florida’s north east coast near Jacksonville
The ecosystem of St Johns River is a very large one consisting of:
- Marshes
- Wetlands and
- Swamps
In this river, you’ll find hundreds of alligators. According to some wildlife experts, approximately 700-800 alligators live in the region around this river.
Before it empties into the Atlantic Ocean, St John River travels from south to north and then moves through a large portion of the state.
In the Black Creek tributary, you can find many alligators basking in the sun when the weather is mild. You may not spot them out under the sun during very hot weather as they go back into the water.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
The Merritt Island National wildlife Refuge is a very big expanse of land which protects more than 140,000 acres, including the numerous ecosystems in Florida.
This natural, serene, and breathtaking wildlife refuge shares an island with the Kennedy Space Center and NASA. An amazing drive-through wilderness trail you can find here is the Black Point Wildlife Drive.
It is about 7 miles long and has many alligators along the trail. Here, you’ll also find hiking trails and even a manatee observation center.
It is important for visitors to be cautious of their environment and also prepare for the wilderness.
Ensure that you adhere to all the safety precautions and carry a bug spray.
What kind of crocodiles are in the Florida Keys?
In South Florida, it is very common to spot American Crocodiles and they are frequently found swimming in Keys Canals.
After their population drastically reduced in 1970, they were regarded as endangered and became federally protected animals.
Currently, wildlife experts and scientists estimate that there are about 2000 alligators currently residing in Keys and South Miami-Dade
Ocala National Forest
Covering more than 600 square miles, this large expanse of land is one of Florida’s most natural and wild parts.
Ocala National Forest houses a variety of wildlife, including large populations of
- Florida black bees
- Florida scrub-jays
- Alligators and so on
In Ocala National Forest, you’ll find many trails, natural springs, rivers, and lakes.
There are also different paddle trails and routes for activities such as:
- kayaking,
- canoeing and
- paddle boarding.
These activities are the quickest and easiest ways to spot alligators.
However, make sure you take appropriate caution at all times.
There are many scenic natural driving routes and wild areas where you can find alligators.
Lake Okeechobee
Generally, the largest waterway in Florida is Lake Okeechobee. It is a major headwater for the Everglades and houses hundreds of alligators.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common is it to see an alligator in Florida?
Alligators can be found in nearly every area in Florida.
They can be seen around your neighbor’s swimming pool and even in a puddle at a crowded intersection.
Where are you most likely to see an alligator in Florida?
Lake George in Northwest Florida is known to have a greater population of alligators, with about 2,300 alligators, according to Florida fish and wildlife
Do you have to worry about alligators in Florida?
While there are hardly any cases of serious injuries inflicted on humans by alligators in Florida, these accidents still occur.
As such, it is important to take necessary precautions as instructed by the FWC when you are in or near the water.
