The following warning was issued because of recent high water in the low areas of Texas and Louisiana.

STATES ISSUE WARNING...

Louisiana and Texas Gulf Coast Residents

ATTENTION: Golfers, Hikers, Hunters and Fishermen

Due to the current high water situation, the Louisiana & Texas Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries is advising hunters, fishermen, hikers, and golfers to take extra precautions and keep alert for alligators in Calcasieu, Cameron, Jeff Davis, and Allen parishes in La. and Jefferson and Orange counties in TX.

They have advised people to wear noise-producing devices such as little bells on their clothing as to alert but not startle the alligators unexpectedly. They also advise the carrying of pepper spray in case of an encounter with an alligator.

It is also a good idea to watch for fresh signs of alligator activity.
People should recognize the difference between small young alligator droppings and large adult alligator droppings.

Young alligator droppings are smaller and contain fish bones and possibly bird feathers. Adult alligator droppings have little bells in them and smell like pepper spray.