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

I see YOU

Do YOU see ME?

That was all.

I do wonder what the world looks like to an Alligator with his eyes at water level.

Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, SC
November 14, 2021

A profiling Alligator caught my attention as I passed by.  I couldn’t hear any growling or other noise, but kept my eye on him. He might have been eating something or just showing off.

The action was all over in a few seconds, and that was the end of the excitement.

At least from my viewpoint. It’s hard to know what, if anything, either Alligator was thinking.