I first spotted this Alligator laying on the lawn between the Mill Pond and Butterfly Lakes at Middleton Place. I didn’t take his picture; it was a scene I’ve photographed many times.
Then he decided to take a walk–now that’s a bit different.
He crossed the lawn, dropped into the small pond closest to the rice field. I had taken a longer route, not really expecting to see him again, and arrived here just as he climbed out on the other side.
He ducked back into the water when he spotted me; I passed by and waited.
The Alligator continued his trek at a slow, steady pace…across the pedestrian path…
…across another small lawn…
…then into the rice field pond he went.
Middleton Place, Charleston, SC
April 6, 2023
A walk in the park can be quite an adventure at your place. 🙂
Happy Easter weekend.
It sure can, Hans! Thanks, and the same to you.
My granddaughter and I had a 10 footer starring at us today walking at Jarvis Park on Hilton Head, it seems like there are so many more than years ago. They look different walking
Wow, I rarely get concerned about them but that can be a bit disconcerting when it seems like they are staring. I expect development there as pushed them into smaller territory, making them more concentrated.
Their bodies look too big to be held up by those little legs 🐊
OMG. I have never lived near alligators. Amazing photos you took!!! How is their behavior around humans? Don’t they attack?
Thanks, Lisa! It has been a learning experience for me since I moved to SC seven years ago. I have a very healthy respect for staying out of their path.
There are very few instances of an Alligator attacking a human. Alligators are more interested in having their space and do their best to avoid humans even in public spaces like this where they are somewhat acclimated to human presence. Incidents that have occurred can be traced to human behavior: feeding, harassing, or otherwise interfering with the beast, especially if it has young.
Good to know!
Omg 😳 Great chronology of a gator trek. It isn’t easy being a scary creepy giant reptile — they are really conspicuous on land. No wonder they hide most of the time in water.
Thanks, I was quite surprised to see the whole thing. Yes, and they really are quite awkward looking. The tour guides always “joke” about them running and how you need to run faster than your friends, but I’ve never seen one run more than two feet to jump into the water.