ALLIGATOR WARNING TOO:

The recent drought condition in Florida have caused alligators to be found in places they would not normally be found. It is also the mating season when alligators become very aggressive. Because of these conditions, Florida residents and visitors should exercise extra caution when walking outside. The following tips should be helpful in avoiding alligator attacks:

As you walk, scan the ground for signs of alligators in the vicinity. Indicators are usually tracks on the ground and/or alligator droppings.

Alligators have poor eyesight but keen hearing. They normally avoid humans. Therefore, it is suggested that persons walking near alligator habitat wear small bells tied to their shoelaces to alert alligators of your presence.

Small alligators will not attach humans. If you spot signs of alligator activity, try to determine the size of the alligators in the vicinity. This can be done by observing the characteristics of their droppings. Small alligator droppings are gray and have a strong fishy smell. Large alligator droppings are dark brown and have small bells in them.