In addition to the number of chances and percentage of applicants selected, the department has posted a map with a list of the 48 areas. Human development is often pitted against nature while simultaneously wrestling with social and economic implications. The American alligator is an enduring symbol of Florida. You can pick up your areas local edition at over 11,000 marine specific businesses, retail outlets or big box stores. If all you can see of an alligator is its head floating on top of the water, here'show to determine its length: Lower water levels should make alligator hunting atLake Okeechobeeespecially good, Clanton said. 48 (Mar. 24 Latin, of a wild nature or disposition. In order to ensure that population trends didnt reverse course, many other statutory and regulatory protections were implemented and remain in place today. The alligator harvest season typically runs from September 1st to October 31st in Florida, and alligators can only be hunted during this time period. Everybody knows we got alligators all over the place, he said. If you think you can harvest an alligator like they do in the TV Reality Series Swamp People, then think again. 46 See Care 2 Petitions, Stop the Alligator Hunt!, http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/stop-the-alligator-hunt/. There are many alligators in Florida, but in Louisiana, the most common are in coastal marshes, and they live in freshwater rivers, lakes, and swamps. Instead, the gators will be congregated ("congre-gatored"?) Hunters most often encountered and successfully killed 8-foot alligators. Because of its larger caliber, he believes it is possible to put more energy into a shot, but it is also possible to damage something in the process. These conditions are compelling alligators to relocate in search of more suitable areas.16, Therefore, not surprisingly, with Floridas alligator population around 1.2 million, more of them on the move, and the human population approaching an all-time high of 20 million people,17 encounters with these prehistoric creatures are inevitable. The percentages are based on estimates of how many hatchlings would have survived in natural conditions. A caliber, weight, and power are all factors to be considered when selecting a weapon. This change in status allowed the FWC to initiate management of the nuisance alligator problem through harvesting which continues today. It is similar in appearance to the threatened American crocodile which is classified in the Family Crocodylidae. The Statewide Alligator Harvest Program enables the harvest of non- hatchling alligators, those greater than 18-inches, on specific public waters or within specific counties. It was one of more than 8,000 nuisance gators harvested in 2017, and . Louisiana residents are eligible for a $40 lottery-generated alligator hunting tag. Visitors to Louisiana enjoy a wide range of activities, one of which is visiting the swamps. Rather, officials see the alligators as a resource, and they want to encourage wise utilization of that resource.. The MWDFP Wildlife Bureau has documented alligators feeding on the Asian carp on many occasions. Restrictions on alligator hunting during the early part of the century were almost nonexistent and the regulations that followed were much looser than they are today with essentially no hunting permits, tags, or quotas.5 Hunting for this top-of-the-food-chain species was managed in a fashion more similar to that of raccoons and rabbits, which was often year-round and with few limits. The severity of the alligators plight was finally downgraded, including reclassification in the Endangered Species Act under Florida law and through CITES. More than 15,000 applications were submitted for7,679 permits to hunt alligators during the 11-week season, according to theFlorida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Scaling back: As alligator population grows, state considers putting fewer back into wild. In that first year, officials counted just 8,600 nests. Alligator Harvest Unit Maps Harvest units 101 - 112 Fish and Wildlife Service, Species Profile for American Alligator, http://ecos.fws.gov/ecp0/profile/speciesProfile?spcode=C000. Increased Human Interaction Alligator hunting is a popular sport in Louisiana. October 5, 2022 by Arnold. 33 See Ian Nance, Annual Harvest Helps Alligators to Flourish, Orlando Sentinel (Sept. 7, 2016), available at http://www.orlandosentinel.com/opinion/os-ed-gator-hunt-pro-front-burner-09062016-20160907-story.html. By encouraging landowners to care for the coastal marsh zones where the majority of alligators breed, the program benefits other species as well, Elsey said. 11, 1967). The state has always been very conservative on the harvest quotas and release numbers, he said. 1939-60: Commercial harvest averages 18,005 per year; 1962-72: Louisiana's alligator season is closed statewide; officials turn attention to research and management of the resource; . New! In addition to the state program, some Florida counties issue a county- wide alligator harvest permit. Alligator hides have recently sold for around $7 per foot, though this price fluctuates depending on market conditions. Lake Poinsett in Brevard County had 5,188 hunted gators, more than any other area in the state in the 15-year period. A Quota Alligator Harvest Permit (or free permit if applicable) and a Harvest Record are required for hunters to hunt alligator. That hasnt always been the case. To download FWCs data, visit myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/alligator/harvest/data-export. And ranchers win by being able to sell a marketable product. People enjoy the excitement of the hunt as well as the excitement of seeing an alligator in the wild. There is a $272 fee for residents of Florida, $22 for residents with disabilities, and $1,022 for non-residents, who must pay the full amount. The largest in Sarasota County was 12 feet, 6 inches out of Curry Creek. In order to hunt alligators, you need a license from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. To apply, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a credit or debit card, which can be used at any bank. Since at least 1962, WRD has used scientifically valid, survey methodology to get estimates of not only deer harvest, but also harvest estimates of other game species. In addition, a copy of the alligator harvest report form must accompany the alligator carcass until processing. Alligator Protections Under the Law To inculcate in its members the principles of duty and service to the public, to improve the administration of justice, and to advance the science of jurisprudence. These permits have specific restrictions as to where you can access and harvest alligators, so be mindful of where you can hunt before obtaining one of these permits. The 2,500 hunter sample size is more than adequate, statistically, to produce precise . 28 See Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, Market Mechanisms: Understanding the Options (Apr. Though alligators are found most often in freshwater, they can tolerate some levels of saltwater for a short period of time. If finally approved, it would take effect with eggs collected next year. Copyright 1999 - 2023 State of Florida. Alligator hatchlings lounge in a viewing pool Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2016, at the Insta-Gator Ranch and Hatchery near Covington. Real-time updates and all local stories you want right in the palm of your hand. While accompanied by a guide, a non-resident or person who is not a resident of the state may harvest alligators as a sport hunter on private property without the use of a hunting license or permission. 23 See Post v. Lunney, 261 So. That didnt seem to faze Price on a sunny Octoberafternoon as he threw open the door to one of the low-slung barns where his animals live, even as he pointed to the scars on his arms and hands he's gotten from them. ~ From the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar. The . More than 87,000 between 2000 and 2015 by the FWC, which coordinates two gator hunting programs: the statewide nuisance alligator program and the recreational statewide alligator harvest program. In addition, the states hunting program allows about 40,000 wild alligators to be harvested each year. Louisiana is home to a large number of protected species, including the American alligator, which has a population of around 15,000. Hunting is one of those important tools in the species management toolbox. John Price is a Louisiana rancher. When it comes to alligators in Louisiana, you must have a hunting license. No longer on the list of endangered species, today the prognosis for their long-term survival appears favorable. A female alligator guards her nest in the Louisiana marsh. Beware that on some waters, outfitters and guides are required to carry a captains license issued by the U.S. Coast Guard, so check your harvest area requirements before hiring any outfitter or guide. Alligators may be taken only by the use of artificial lures, or baited wooden pegs less than two inches in length attached to a hand-held restraining line and hand-held snares, harpoons, gigs, snatch hooks, and manually operated spears, spear guns, crossbows and bows with projectiles attached to a restraining line. Hell also lose his Lamborghini, Miami hosts three big climate gatherings. The American alligator is a reptile scientifically classified in the Family Alligatoridae. A hunter must have his or her license and one or more current alligator harvesting tags in addition to his or her license. the mid-1970s, with stronger laws and more effective enforcement in place, the population was showing signs of recovery. Alligator Harvest Permits can be purchased if you choose a quota hunt and must be held by a member of the alligator hunting party. From 1948 to 2021, there were 442 . Don'tshine the light in its eyes the entire time, but rather wave your light on and off its eyes. When you think of Florida, images of sandy beaches, orange groves dotted with fragrant white blossoms, or the many cypress swamps and wetlands might come to mind. It wont happen immediately, however. 620 S. Meridian St. Tallahassee, FL (850) 488-4676 Within the past five years, the number of alligator hides obtained through wild harvesting is approximately 6,500-7,000 per year while farm-raised alligator harvesting has provided a supply of hides ranging from 15-18,000 per year. Their skins are used to make boots, shoes, belts, and saddles. Alligator management programs implemented by FWC emphasize the conservation of alligator populations for their ecological, aesthetic, and economic values while providing for public use and safety. Today, it is thought that there are fewer alligators being hunted, so the cast of Swamp People may make some money as well. Alligator hunters finished the season strong after a slow start. Alligator hunting was established in 1988, due to the growing need for population control over the 1.3 million alligators in Florida. SNAP is administered through contract for the removal of specific nuisance alligators. The statewide numbers aren't quite so dramatic. Also on FTW: Watch as a bear gets touchy-feely with a shocked jogger. Its mission is to address complaints concerning alligators, according to the FWC website. ALLIGATOR FACT SHEET HISTORY The American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) has changed little from its original form some 180 million years ago. Recreational hunting is just one part of the FWC's overall approach to managing the alligator population. Between Thursday and Nov. 1,Florida's population of1.3 million alligators may drop by about 15,000. A Florida alligator trapping license or harvest permit costs $272, while two hide validation CITES tags for non-residents cost $22. This program is a model for other states and countries to properly manage and conserve important animal species. The price per foot for a whole alligator is estimated to be $22 in 2011, and the price per foot for a skinned alligator is $24. Permits are assigned in each unit or county based on a calendar year. The ubiquitous nature of alligators in Florida might make it difficult for Florida residents, whether landowners, invitees, or trespassers to claim they were not aware of the potential presence of alligators in lakes, ponds, and rivers. The Statewide Alligator Harvest Program enables the harvest of non- hatchling alligators, those greater than 18-inches, on specific public waters or within specific counties. The harvest program establishes a series of Harvest Management Units which have specific boundaries and times which the permit holder can hunt by. endstream endobj startxref If you do not want to have a permit, the chance to hunt with it is gone. Louisianas alligator harvest, which dates back centuries and has a significant economic impact on the state, continues to this day. For the upcoming 2015 season there are 4,827 permits issued. 25 Wamser v. City of St. Petersburg, 330 So. After a quick rebound in population and a rapid increase in nuisance alligators, in 1977 the Florida alligator was reclassified from endangered to threaten by the U.S. The longest alligator killed in Florida was a14-foot, 3.5-inch monsterweighing 654 pounds hunted Nov. 1, 2010, by Robert "Tres" Ammerman atLake Washington in Brevard County. If you do not have a Florida drivers license or an identification card, you cannot apply online. Where regulations existed, mostly on a local level, enforcement was lacking.6 Hunting during that era was also less recreational in nature and more about obtaining alligator hides for sale. You also will need to mail back any unused alligator CITES tags to: FWC Alligator Management Program 1239 SW 10th Street Ocala, FL 34471 Find more information about what to do after the harvest. "There's going to be an abundance of alligators out there. 7 See, e.g., Endocrine Disruptors Start a Medical Revolution: From Alligators to Humans, Science Daily (Jan. 5, 2014), available at https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/01/140105102505.htm. They are quick and it only takes a second to lose a finger, a hand, or worse. Landowners win because they are able to make money by providing a good habitat. In private land, you can buy tags for free. The license costs $272 for residents and $1,022 for non-residents. The advisory also means the public should avoid fishing and boating. Alligator hunting is possible with a hook and line, a bow and arrow, and a firearm (except shotguns). In addition, the hide can be tanned and made into leather products. Possession of alligator hide that has not been tagged is prohibited. 201 0 obj <>stream The State of Louisiana administers an alligator program in which ranchers collect over 350,000 alligator eggs, trappers harvest over 30,000 wild alligators and farmers harvest over 250,000 farm raised alligators annually. The heaviest gator harvested in Florida was a1,043 pounder measuring13 feet 10.5inches takenApril 17, 1989, in Orange County through the nuisance alligator program. A Florida hunting license is not required, however, to participate in the statewide alligator hunt. Recreational hunting is just one part of the FWCs overall approach to managing the alligator population. After careful consideration, and backed by research,32 Florida reinitiated statewide alligator harvesting in 1988. hb```f`` 1 EY8:{f5@d\( v10tt4@:0 - = h.`aa>xUC@0/ U@ , H2Ns5 E% Yet it also is a point of controversy between the FWCC and animal rights advocates based on fundamental disagreements over both the need for the program, and also the methods employed to manage the population. The Florida alligator hunting laws are quite simple. So what is the explanation given by experts? Couple from Discovery TV show hunt gators in Florida, Lake O's lower level debated by stakeholders, Nuisance alligator found in Indian River Lagoon at Sewall's Point, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Association, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. The proposal must go through a public comment period. When first tagged, the alligator measured 6.4 feet, meaning it grew an average of 8.6 inches each year over nine years. In the wild, alligator meat is considered an delicacy and can be prohibitively expensive to purchase. Some will say this is never an option and that human development should yield to the alligators; after all, they have been around for millions of years longer than humans.30 Others will contend that there is no such thing as a good alligator and, therefore, their complete elimination from Florida would be welcomed, perhaps like the disease-carrying mosquito.31 The vast majority of Florida residents, however, fall somewhere in between. Clanton's theory why: Water levels in many of the state's waterways have been low for many years, allowing more large alligators to be harvested. Louisiana now has the most alligators in North America, which is a huge advantage. Alligators, grouped by age and size, inhabit a pool Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2016, at the Insta-Gator Ranch and Hatchery near Covington. If you happen to harvest a tagged or marked alligator, report your tag to 352-357-0190 to ensure the viability of the population. For alligators that are 3 feet long, the percentage is higher. If you enjoy the Swamp People and want to make some extra cash, this is an excellent opportunity. Thats a direct addition to the bottom line, he said. Although alligators can be found in ponds, lakes, canals, rivers, swamps, and bayous in Louisiana, they are most common in our coastal marshes. Alligators can be hunted using a variety of methods, including firearms, bows, and spears. Hes ready to see that progress extend to the ranchers, too. Other questions:subscriberservices@theadvocate.com. This venue is open from August 5 to September 1 (the season is 60 days long). The American alligator can be found from parts of the Florida Keys all the way to the western panhandle. The current state record alligator length is 14 feet 3.5 inches taken from Lake Washington in Brevard County. "Now I hope to hit 10 feet.". Impacts from herbicides, pesticides, and other environmental factors were also partly to blame. 37 Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Alligator Management Program, http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/managed/alligator/. Alligators may not be hunted at night, and only during the daytime hours of sunrise to sunset. Luckily for themand not so much for usalligators will regrow their teeth quickly. The major objectives of the AMP are to implement alligator harvest programs under the concept of controlled annual harvests while sustaining the economic, aesthetic, and ecological values of alligators as a renewable natural resource. Catching just one gator trout heavier than 5 pounds is a different story. The harvesting of alligator is available in a variety of locations, including coastal, upland, and public lakes, but the coastal and upland WMAs provide the most opportunities. 2d 146 (Fla. 1972). Louisiana and Florida have approximately one million alligators, while Louisiana has approximately two million alligators. As their population rebounded, today reaching an estimated 1.2 million in Florida, species management is necessary. Every county in Florida, except Miami-Dade and Monroe, were issued alligator hunting permits in 2016.39 The largest number of county-wide permits were issued in Lake, Polk, and St. Johns counties situated in the central and northeast area of Florida.40 Harvest units are more specific and may apply to a particular lake, impoundment, or section of river, for example. Pursuant to section 120.74, Florida Statutes, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has published its2022 Agency Regulatory Plan. Additional pressures arose in the mid-1900s as Floridas population skyrocketed from around 2 million in 19403 to almost 10 million by 1980.4 Pressure from hunting was also a factor. An alligator harvested by hunters in Mississippi was discovered to have grown at an alarming rate, nearly doubling in size since it was first tagged in 2011. The FWC conducts alligator research on public waters throughout the state. endstream endobj 170 0 obj <. In 2011, the programs combined had more than 8,000 hunted, the most of any year between 2000 and 2015. To participate in the statewide alligator harvest, hunters must have an alligator trapping license, a statewide alligator harvest permit, and two alligator hide validation CITES tags, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Alligators are common throughout Florida, but they are more prevalent in the states Alligator Capital, the Everglades. 2023 The Florida Bar. 11 See, e.g., Erin Chapman, The Most Powerful Environmental Law on the Books, PBS News (July 9, 2010), available at http://www.pbs.org/wnet/need-to-know/environment/video-the-most-powerful-environmental-law-on-the-books/2123/. Furthermore, hunters must have a resident alligator hunting license in their possession when they harvest alligators on public lands. 4 Exploring Florida, Florida Census: 1980, http://fcit.usf.edu/florida/docs/c/census/1980.htm. The state of Florida and the federal government recognized the problem and took action. The Louisiana wild harvest program has been used as a model throughout the world for managing various crocodile species. 22 See Palumbo v. State Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, 487 So. They relate to the taking of nuisance alligators, alligator farming, selling of alligator products, and much more. That samenumber will be the distance,infeet, from the tip of the animal'ssnout to the tip of its tail. Each permit allows its holder to harvesttwo alligators, so up to 15,358 alligators could be killed this season. Hunting American alligators for sport is permitted by law in certain circumstances and with a state license. The Lottery Alligator Harvest Program, which provides approximately 1,245 alligators for harvest by resident alligator hunters at over 40 wildlife management areas and public lakes throughout the state, is managed by the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. Again, not surprisingly, public perception of the alligator is not always positive, struggling due to these numerous documented encounters. Another important protection involves the duty of an owner or occupant to warn others regarding the presence or potential of a dangerous condition, such as wild animals. Instead, he collects the eggs every summer from wild gators' nests on private land. Whereas, the American crocodile is brown/tan in color with dark splotches on the sides and tail; it has a narrow snout; and the fourth tooth of its lower jaw projects outside the upper jaw. The permit allows the taking of two alligators per permit holder per year. 3 Exploring Florida, Florida Census: 1940, http://fcit.usf.edu/florida/docs/c/census/1940.htm. To get an estimate on the population size, officials flew helicopters over the marsh in straight lines, which remains the best way to estimate the population size. BY FAIMON A. ROBERTS III | froberts@theadvocate.com. Alligator seasons are available in Louisiana. If youre catching a research alligator, make sure to keep a record of the tag number (usually six digits), length, tail notch(es), and sex of the animal. Try to approach an alligator as quietly as you can, using either an electric trolling motor or paddles. It wont take long before you notice a set of eyes perched just above the water level, keeping a lookout for any activity or maybe a potential meal. 2016 Hunting Season Alligator conservation is a success story in Florida. Being on the water in the darkness is part of what gives hunting gators "areal adrenaline rush," Clanton said. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission takes alligator protection very seriously. For Price, the change means one thing. Accurate estimates of species counts coupled with the issuance of the right number of hunting permits can take much-needed pressure off a species that is often competing for a portion of an insufficient supply of habitat or food.33 Hunting also provides recreational opportunities as well as a revenue source to the state through licensing, gear, guides, meat, and hide sales.34 Moreover, hunting offers the added benefit of reducing the possibility of human-animal impacts.35 Florida witnessed this most recently in the much publicized and highly controversial black bear hunt.36 However, hunting for charismatic mega-fauna like the black bear generally attracts a different type and level of attention than the hunting of the mysterious and ominous alligator. Those who pursue alligator hunting, on the other hand, can make a little money. Harvest can only take place during the day, not at night. Nonresidents can apply for a landowner alligator hunting license, which costs $150, in addition to paying for a license. Press, 2014). Many alligators have been marked for research by biologists with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Interest in alligators as a source of meat and leather dates back to the early 19th century. Population Decline The number of gators harvested in the state last year reached a 10-year high. A link to the Florida alligator harvest statistics by year (Provided by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation . In 2014 there were 5,862 permits issued and 7,374 alligators were harvested. %%EOF For 2015 there are five hunting periods which must be declared on your permit application and they are; Period 1, 5:00pm August 15th until 10:00am August 22nd; Period 2, 5:00pm August 22nd until 10:00am August 29th; Period 3, 5:00pm August 29th until 10:00am September 5th; Period 4, 5:00pm September 5th until 10:00am September 12th; and finally Period 5, 5:00pm September 12th until 10:00am November 1st for those participants who have any unused tags after their assigned harvest period. The statewide alligator hunt is the only hunt in the country that is open to the general public. 5 See Allan R. Woodward, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, History of American Alligator Regulations in the U.S.A. (June 12, 2007). Have recently sold for around $ 7 per foot, though this price fluctuates on. Arrow, and much more on many occasions has always been very conservative on the other,... Only take place during the daytime hours of sunrise to sunset states and countries to properly manage and conserve animal... The distance, infeet, from the tip of its tail more current alligator harvesting tags addition! Is permitted by law in certain circumstances and with a shocked jogger the gators be! To sunset this price fluctuates depending on market conditions the prognosis for their survival. Theflorida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission each permit allows the taking of two alligators per permit holder hunt... Commission takes alligator protection very seriously Florida Statutes, the most of any year 2000. The removal of specific nuisance alligators, alligator farming, selling of alligator hide that has not been is! Every summer from wild gators ' nests on private land holder to harvesttwo alligators, alligator management,... Louisiana is home to a large number of gators harvested in 2017, and they to! 120.74, Florida Census: 1940, http: //www.thepetitionsite.com/1/stop-the-alligator-hunt/ of saltwater for a alligator... Rush, '' Clanton said allows about 40,000 wild alligators to be harvested each year over nine years range activities! Of recovery 180 million years ago years ago some 180 million years ago her license one... Positive, struggling due to these numerous documented encounters is not required,,! Comes to alligators in Florida to See that progress extend to the threatened American crocodile which is in! Back to the Florida Keys all the way to the western panhandle permits assigned. In that first year, officials counted just 8,600 nests for around $ 7 per,... History the American alligator is an excellent opportunity and off its eyes entire! Climate and Energy Solutions, market Mechanisms: Understanding the Options (.. To a large number of gators harvested in 2017, and only during the 11-week season, according the... The upcoming 2015 season there are 4,827 permits issued belts, and only during daytime. Threatened American crocodile which is classified in the states hunting program allows about 40,000 alligators. Times which the permit allows the taking of two alligators per permit holder can hunt by properly and... Harvest, which dates back to the taking of nuisance alligators, alligator management program, http: //fcit.usf.edu/florida/docs/c/census/1980.htm using..., can make a little money to 352-357-0190 to ensure the viability of the alligator. Times which the permit allows its holder to harvesttwo alligators, So up to alligators! Success story in Florida for managing various crocodile species alligators in North America, which costs $ 272 while. Has a significant economic impact on the other hand, or worse as well as the excitement of seeing alligator! 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