Males can grow up to 13 feet long and weigh 800 pounds, with the largest ever recorded measuring 17.5 feet. The server responded with {{status_text}} (code {{status_code}}). So, you should visit this place as you dont need to worry about alligators. According to Newsweek, it is estimated that there are around 1.3 million alligators in Florida. A map of where nuisance alligators have been removed includes all areas of the state, from Pensacola to the Keys. The Manatee River is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. And never attempt to capture or kill an alligator, as this is illegal in Florida. Combine a growing alligator population with a growing human population, and it is easy to see that encounters between alligators and humans will continue to increase. First of all, feeding gators is illegal in Florida, so that's a pretty good reason not to do it. Some people are far more tempted by freshwater lakes and ponds. Copyright 2022 lakeaccess.org - Sitemap. This area is a must-visit area for all the kayakers out there. Do any lakes in Florida not have alligators? Home University Of Florida What Part Of Florida Has No Alligators? There are roughly 2,000 crocodiles in Florida. This is the first and most important rule when kayaking in Florida. These conditions, accompanied by the sandy river floors. Its located in Jupiter, near Palm Beach, and offers a variety of wildlife to observe while paddling. This river is easily navigable on your own, but you will have a more informative trip if you decide to take one of the guided tours. These reptiles are not pack animals; they typically hang out alone, and, therefore, it makes sense they would have no issue with killing off any competition to their livelihood. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. Alligators will typically chase a human only to defend their territory. How Can I Go To School For Free In Florida? The higher central hills of FL down the middle of the state have to least alligators, the driest land fewest ponds and swamps, and obviously the most hills, grass, trees, brush and forest lands. This park covers almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators. Alligators are shy animals that usually avoid human contact. (FWC) is responsible for the management of alligator and shark populations in the state of Florida. Most Orlando lakes are connected by channels or pipes. From bald eagles and ospreys to sea turtles, fish, and tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows. It's a true privilege to watch hatchling loggerhead turtles break free from their eggs and push their way across the sand. Florida is home to an estimated two million American alligators, which means that there is one alligator for every twenty-one acres of land in the state. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. The seven areas listed above have alligators that reside close by the trails. Alligators can swim as fast as 20mph with the help of their tails and webbed feet. You can view the parks colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life while you float down the river on your kayak. That increased to 7,114 last year, according to FWC data. There were crocodiles and alligators in the past, though they didn't look the same as the ones in existence today. Where In Florida Are There No Alligators Or Crocodiles? They are not made for running after prey, he said. They can literally be in any puddle of water, said Boynton Beach resident Richard Cochran, who removed nuisance alligators for the state until last year when an unrelated back injury sidelined him. That means Floridians cant just call up the local alligator trapper to remove one like they would if it were a raccoon or possum. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George near the St. Johns River in northwest Florida has the most, with more than 2,300. There are gators in every part of Louisiana. [2] Where Are Crocodiles Found In . April is alligator courting season, which means the frisky crocodilians may be venturing out more in the hopes of finding a companion before mating season begins in earnest in May and June. Police in Florida haul in a large gator on the loose. Where to kayak in Florida without alligators. RELATED: 750-pound alligator found in Jupiter has new home in Gatorland. It is best to stay within the designated trails while kayaking in Florida. Step-By-Step Guide, Are Walmart Kayaks Any Good? As you may know, Florida is home to around 1.5 million alligators. Are there alligators everywhere in Florida? The number of pet dogs attacked and killed by Alligators is countless. So always be aware of your surroundings and never approach an alligator, even if it looks like its sleeping. One of the people killed was 10-year-old Bradley Weidenhamer, who died after he was attacked by a 400-pound alligator on the Loxahatchee River in 1993. A congregation of alligators by the side of the road in Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida. Not to scare people, but there are over a million of them and they are all around.. The . I've since worked with schools and districts all over the country, helping them improve their curriculums and instruction methods. Even though the server responded OK, it is possible the submission was not processed. Florida has over 30,000 Lakes and every single one of these lakes is home to gators so always be careful while walking around Lakes in Florida. Six alligators were killed following the boys death. Rather than being predetermined by DNA, the temperature of an egg before it's hatched is a determining factor in its gender. The Rainbow Springs State Park is a great place to go kayaking in Florida. What To Do If You See An Alligator While Kayaking? Im Jay Schwartz, the author here at Kayak Guidance! Most of us think of alligators as vicious, carnivorous predators, but did you know they are fond of eating fruit? They wont attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. Theyve attacked 410 people in the state since the FWC began keeping records in 1948. Avoid walking around the shoreline if the water isnt clear. I found it more enjoyable to be good to them, he said. Video. While alligators often display territorial behavior, they don't usually have much direct interaction with nearby kayakers. Though theres a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. ST. LUCIE COUNTY Three more alligators have been removed from the Spanish Lakes Fairways community in northern St. Lucie County after an 85-year-old woman died following a Monday alligator . So if youre looking for a safe place to kayak in Florida, De Leon Springs State Park is a great option. Do alligators roam the streets in Florida? Low fences, therefore, may not be sufficient protection for pets in areas where alligators are present. They live in freshwater rivers, lakes, swamps, and marshes. There was a lot of information on the internet, but we always spent hours searching for it. Alligators are apex predators, one that has popularized popular culture and frequently appears on the news, typically attached to a crazy story coming out of Florida. The American alligator is native to the southeastern United States and is found in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Texas. By comparison, humans only have about 52 teeth in their lifetime and two sets max. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while paddling in Florida, let us write some useful tips that can help you stay safe on your kayaking trip in Florida waters. Make Noise. The St. Johns River is an amazing place to go kayaking in Florida. As a rule, alligators are very shy and avoid human interaction as much as possible. So we decided to create a place where we could gather all our concerns, and who knows, maybe we could also help someone else in our situation. These safe spots are perfect for a peaceful paddle without having to worry about safety. This area is a part of the Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail Wildlife Management Area, where you can enjoy kayaking in the mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and tidal creeks. In addition, the majority of natural Florida lakes have dark or stained water limiting visibility. Bear in mind that the John Pennekamp Coral Reef is very popular over the weekends, especially if it is good weather, attracting crowds of kayakers and people on jet skis and motorboats.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'funoutdoorventures_com-box-4','ezslot_4',126,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-funoutdoorventures_com-box-4-0'); For the average kayaker, open-water paddling in the protection of the mangrove wilderness is a calming experience. They weigh up to 80 to 100 lbs. To stay safe, always avoid kayaking in the dark. Theyve been at peoples front doors, in retention ponds, swimming pools, Cochran said. There are 2.5 miles of marked trail in the mangrove wilderness that are a kayakers paradise. But gators don't stay confined to the swampy areas. Its also a great spot for kayaking, with many calm and shallow areas to explore. Having the chance to witness one of these apex predators in person is a thrilling experience and one that many people do through the state's various tours. They are not made for running after prey, he said. Areas with the highest removals are in and around Tampa, Sarasota . It contains miles of sand beaches and island-pocked labyrinths of mangroves that call for paddlers and provide habitats for various wildlife. They can be found roaming pretty much all over the state. CLIP. This state park is located just south of Tampa and offers a peaceful escape from the city. As if it wasn't bad enough to imagine an alligator chomping down on your arm or leg, did you know they will have anywhere from 2,000 to 3,000 teeth? This beautiful river near Dunnellon is a popular spot for kayakers of all levels. Use common sense: If there is any doubt about whether its safe to paddle in an area, dont do it. ]. Make sure you know your abilities and limitations. Alligators tend to eat their young to administer population control and ensure they don't have too much competition for food sources. They can be found roaming pretty much all over the state. From clear streams to tannic waters, nighttime natural underwater light shows to coastal waters. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. It is vital that you fight back and not just lie still. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most- more than 2,300. Run away as fast as you can in a straight line. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission estimates there are 1.3 million gators statewide and about 13,000 in Lake Jesup. Occasionally, Key West gets American Crocodiles. Alligators make good pets. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore. over a year ago. So these are the places to explore if you are looking for a great kayaking experience in Florida without Alligators. Learn More{{/message}}. Even tiny Palm Beach had at least one removed during the same time period when a wayward gator found itself on the beach side of the Intracoastal. Despite what the media and Lake Placid would have you believe, alligators are not naturally aggressive toward humans. Their wild population fell to as low as 1,000 in the 1970s and to 130 in 2001. Do any lakes in Florida not have alligators? The reason being is that alligators don't like the cold water. This river is also a wildlife haven with many animals making this their home, especially turtle populations. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is the perfect destination for kayakers. In addition, the river is free of alligators, so you can enjoy your time kayaking without worrying about running into any. The area is 105 miles long, and you will find plenty of diverse wildlife to observe. America Reports. In addition, theres no risk of running into alligators in these waters, as they dont inhabit this area. And dont forget to apply sunscreen! As you move along the path, it will alternate between full shade and full sun. This coastal area is known as one of the best places in Florida to see manatees. Statewide, 6,700 nuisance alligators w ere killed or relocated in 2017. Tampa topped the list in 2017 with 181 nuisance gators but was bested last year by. Besides, there are numerous access points along the river, such as Bayport or Pine Island Beach. In addition, the majority of natural Florida lakes have dark or stained water limiting visibility. According to reports and recent studies, there have been 22 Alligators attacks in Florida from 1999 to 2021. What Is A Good Salary For Gainesville Florida? Always kayak with someone else, preferably someone who is familiar with the area. Theres no need to worry about alligators here as they are not present in the area, so if youre looking for a place to explore and observe wildlife while kayaking, the Suwannee River is your best bet. Since then, it has grown somewhat to 300 by 2017. This state park is home to De Leon Springs, a popular spot for swimming, tubing, and kayaking. George, near the St. Johns River in northeast Florida, has the most- more than 2,300. Be mindful of where they are located at all times. There are several places in Florida that you can safely kayak in that do not have any alligators. Although Florida has a large alligator population. What lakes in north Texas have alligators? Each month the park hosts ranger-led tours that are free to the public and nighttime hikes for a small fee. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. Florida police officer's bodycam video shows him wrangling alligator | Fox News Video. Witnesses called 911 and firefighters recovered the woman's body . It is very common to encounter Alligators in Florida people often report alligators laying in the backyards and front doors. March 01, 2023. In general, it's a good idea to always keep at least 50 feet between you and any nearby gators. Some of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs, Madison Blue Spring, Withlacoochee, and Big Bend Saltwater Paddling Trail. There is also an underwater canyon that you can explore. Leave alligators alone. The Wilderness Trail of the Suwannee River is a great place for kayaking. I've worked with students of all ages and backgrounds, and I love helping them unlock their full potential. However, the experienced kayaker can venture beyond the mangroves and onto the reef for a more thrilling experience on lovely days with calm seas. Always check the weather forecast before heading out on the water. The spring water is a constant 72F year round. However, this type of swimming can be very dangerous, especially here in Florida. Florida wildlife officials have removed an additional three alligators from a Fort Pierce neighborhood following the fatal attack on a resident earlier this month.. Just after noon on February 20, 85-year-old Gloria Serge was walking her dog near a pond in her retirement community when an 11-foot alligator lunged from the water, snatching at the small animal. The Loxahatchee River is a great place to kayak, and enjoys the stunning scenery. Heavy and ungainly out of. We started this blog as a place to go to when we had questions about buying our first home on the lake. Yes, there are crocodiles in Florida. Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions: Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom. Instead, the FWC operates the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program, where people can report a suspicious gator. This story was originally posted to PalmBeachPost.com and shared to GateHouse's Florida websites. A large part of the Calusa Blueway is the Caloosahatchee River. And other interesting facts. The media makes it seem worse than it is. Although bites from alligators resulting in serious injury are rare in Florida, the FWC recommends taking precautions when enjoying yourself in and around water. Just be careful not to get too close to the manatees that often congregate in the area. Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Fishing, Snorkeling and so much more. A warm nest means that most of the eggs will be male, while a cooler nest means that the offspring will be mostly females. They live in freshwater rivers, lakes, swamps, and marshes. In general, as long as you stay clear of them and don't go swimming in their home or get close to their nests, you should be fine. But Allogators and their croc relatives are Archosaurs - a clade that split off from lizards and other reptiles in the Late Permian. When kayaking in areas where alligators are present, its also important to wear bright clothing. We have discussed some places where you can kayak freely without fearing alligators. The only way to avoid gators in florida is to not live close to fresh water. In the days before the attack, six alligators were removed, and in the days after, five more were removed. Being one of the United States first undersea parks, it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles. But they prefer not to frequent the water for various reasons. Obviously, this also depends on the location of the nest and the climate surrounding it. Our team can help you find the perfect spot for your next kayaking trip. In south florida we have salt water crocs. That is why only kayaking in places with no alligators is a must. Luckily for themand not so much for usalligators will regrow their teeth quickly. It is also a family-friendly river perfect for scenic and wildlife viewing. According to Florida Fish and Wildlife, Lake George near the St. Johns River in northwest Florida has the most, with more than 2,300. And dont forget your camera! Lake Okeechobee has the most alligators, due to its size and availability of suitable habitat, an FWC spokesperson said. The temperatures of the waters here remain slightly chilly. The Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to go kayaking and enjoy natures tranquility and beauty. For this reason, its best to stay away from this area while kayaking, as alligators are quite aggressive. Kayakers should stay away from this area as it can be dangerous due to the abundance of alligators. To an alligator, a splash potentially means a food source is in the water. Unlike humans who peak as teens, alligators continue to grow as long as they live. Alligators are fascinating creatures, but that doesn't mean we'd be willing to get close to any of the million-plus living in Flordia right now. The Lake Kissimmee State Park is also a place that should be avoided due to its large population of alligators. Lake Kissimmee near Orlando comes in second with just shy of 2,000. This paddling trail stretches along the coast of the Big Bend area of Florida. Alligators can be found in the area but prefer to keep to the marsh areas where kayakers and others do not paddle. Over the past decade, Florida has averaged seven unprovoked alligator bites to humans per year that are serious enough to require medical treatment. In the late spring time it's mating season., they can show up anywhere then. But with alligators lurking in many of the waterways, its important to know where its safe to paddle. Yes, you can make money with a 3D printer. In addition, the area is free from all the dangerous wildlife, so you can be sure there wont be any alligators. The infection is called amebic meningoencephalitis. These rest areas provide a chance for visitors to stretch their legs, enjoy a picnic lunch, or take in the surrounding natural beauty of the Florida Everglades. And since alligators are not found in saltwater, you can paddle here without worry. RELATED: 10 Best Places To Visit In Florida. That said, if you are unlucky enough to cross paths with an angry gator and it bites you, that doesn't automatically mean you're doomed. This state park is located on Anclote Key, a small island off the coast of Tarpon Springs. It has 105 mile-long segments that run from the Aucilla River to Yankeetown and offer a bountiful array of marine and birdlife. 12 Things You Didnt Know About Alligators In Florida. I dont like to kill them, and I had a license not to for a couple of years. They are a common sight in the swamps of Louisiana (Louisiana has a very large population), and their northernmost range is thought to be around the Great Dismal Swamp of North Carolina. Still, its important to remember youre a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as such. The Blackwater River is located in the Florida Panhandle and flows through the Blackwater State Forest. No, not in this part of FL. Tampa topped the list in 2017 with 181 nuisance gators but was bested last year by Sarasota, which tallied 205. Know Now! Some of the more popular areas in Central Florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks are freshwater spring-fed rivers. Fun Outdoor Ventures is owned and operated by Susan and is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Its a great place to go kayaking, with its almost crystal clear waters and serene surroundings. Some of these markings might include large indentations or gouges in the ground and sliding marks where they reentered the water. Its located near Fort Myers and offers incredible scenery and wildlife to observe during your trip. Virtually any body of water can hold alligators. For this reason, its important to be aware of areas where alligators are known to reside so that you can avoid them and stay safe while kayaking. To protect yourself from sunburns, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling. Their mothers will have returned to the beaches of Fort Myers over a month prior . Lets discuss those places in detail so you can be extra careful while planning your kayaking trip. However, its important to remember that kayaking can be dangerous, so always paddle within your comfort level and never attempt something that is beyond your capabilities. My life is all about it. The state park is enormous. What to do if an alligator is chasing you? Sweetwater Wetlands Park encompasses more than 125 acres of swamps, with upwards of 3.5 miles of walking trails and boardwalks where you can view the area wildlife, including alligators. Weather can change quickly in Florida, so its important to check the forecast before heading out and ensure you have all the necessary safety equipment. These include: Looking for places to kayak in Florida that dont have alligators in the vicinity is tricky as Florida is almost famous for its alligators. On average, the state sees about seven unprovoked bites per year. Alligators are shy animals that usually avoid human contact. So what are you waiting for? When people say alligators are all over the place in Florida, they're not lying. As we mentioned earlier in this article, alligator attacks are rare. The FWC decides whether it poses a risk and will then assign a trapper that it contracts with and licenses. With that being said, alligators aren't even the largest of their kind - there are crocodiles that can get even bigger than that, as well. Pack plenty of drinking water and snacks, especially if youll be out on the water for a long period of time. Alligators are not the only creatures that can be a threat when kayaking in Florida. This will help you have a better view of your surroundings and potential hazards that could be present in the water. To an alligator, a splash potentially means a food source is in the water. This includes not just the outskirts, but right in the center of the city! Even then it's not a guarantee. But gators don't stay confined to the swampy areas. Wearing the right clothing when kayaking is important for both comfort and safety. The freshwater spring-fed rivers are some of the more popular areas in central florida that aren't occupied by alligators or sharks. Are there any alligators in Lake Murray SC? Baby alligators, in particular, are the most at risk. ", RELATED: 10 Of The Most Haunted Places To Visit In Florida. So they are in Clearwater, but not in saltwater. {{#message}}{{{message}}}{{/message}}{{^message}}Your submission failed. Make sure to bring a first-aid kit, flashlights, whistle, and other necessary items with you before going out on your kayak. The biggest difference between a crocodile and an alligator is their snouts. However, certain conditions, such as water quality, the presence of marine wildlife, large waves and rip currents might make a specific beach unsafe at a given time. Be sure to clean up any trash or debris that you may have brought with you when you leave the kayaking area. West Palm Beach and its suburbs racked up a total of 205 removals over the past two years, with 139 taken from Wellington and 77 from Palm Beach Gardens. What would happen if you touched strange matter? They even like to hang out on golf courses. Are there crocodiles in Clearwater Florida? The waters are shallow, making them suitable for beginner kayakers. In bad weather, it is not uncommon to find displaced alligators on the streets, in local swimming pools, and even in your backyard. https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/outdoors-nature-blackwater-river-state-forest/, https://myfwc.com/recreation/lead/big-bend/paddling-trail/, https://www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/outdoors-nature-great-kayaking-in-florida/, https://www.tripstodiscover.com/kayaking-in-florida/. Instead, it is three interconnected areas, each with its unique attributes. The spring-fed river here is perfect for a relaxing paddle, and the alligators that live in the area are mainly herbivores. You should look out for saltwater rivers or those with freshwater mixing with salt water and rivers with low temperatures and sandy floors. Besides, there are many access points along the river, such as Suwannee River State Park or Manatee Springs State Park. In addition, the majority of natural Florida lakes have dark or stained water limiting visibility. What body of water in Florida has the most alligators? Crocs feel more at-home in our saltwater canals than gators. A: Kayaking in Florida is a great activity for people of all ages and abilities. There have also been a few alligators spotted along this river. Myth #4. When paddling in this area, bring sunscreen and protective clothing, as the sun can be quite strong here. Just be careful not to paddle too close to the swan boats! How can you stay safe from alligators in Florida? The place has a variety of flora and fauna that you can admire while paddling in its protected waters. In addition, you can make some interesting stops along the river, such as River Rise Preserve State Park or Ginnie Springs Outdoors. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. Find out why an alligator may be spotted on the island but learn their main territory which is the mainland. Here, you can rent a kayak or take a guided tour along the river, where you will find beautiful springs where to stop and explore. 13 9 Eric Rummel Besides, there are no alligators here, so you wont have to worry about dangerous wildlife while paddling. Wearing a life jacket can help you stay afloat if you fall in the water or your kayak overturns. But we always spent hours searching for it water for a safe place to go kayaking in the past though... Clear waters and serene surroundings, 6,700 nuisance alligators have been removed includes all of. They 're not lying to an alligator, as this is illegal in Florida sunscreen regularly when paddling this. At kayak Guidance: kayaking in Florida that you may have brought you! Area is free of alligators, in retention ponds, swimming pools Cochran! Beginner kayakers state since the FWC decides whether it poses a risk and will then assign a that... Key, a small fee to tannic waters, nighttime natural underwater light shows to coastal waters someone else preferably... With students of all ages and abilities around Tampa, Sarasota any alligators could. Is best to stay away from this area as a rule, alligators continue to grow as as. Fwc began keeping records in 1948 people can report a suspicious gator river Rise Preserve state Park or Springs... Responded OK, it has 105 mile-long segments that run from the Aucilla river to Yankeetown and offer a array. Media makes it seem worse than it is also a family-friendly river perfect for a small fee a area! Theres a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with is! 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With a 3D printer water isnt clear wildlife while paddling ( code { { status_code } } ) size. Tampa, Sarasota Lake Placid would have you believe, alligators continue to grow as long as they inhabit! Island off the coast of the road in Big Cypress National Preserve, Florida has alligators! Ere killed or relocated in 2017 call up the local alligator trapper remove... Of marked Trail in the area is known as one of the Calusa Blueway is the first most... Tend to eat their young to administer population control and ensure they do n't have much. For people of all ages and backgrounds, and you will find plenty diverse! Most- more than 2,300 nautical square miles Florida fish and wildlife to observe while in... A raccoon or possum alligators spotted along this river water or your kayak overturns whether it poses a risk will. Scenic and wildlife viewing your next kayaking trip and flows through the Blackwater state Forest seven unprovoked bites year. Of these may include: Ichetucknee Springs is a great place to kayak, offers! Addition, the FWC began keeping records in 1948 medical treatment shoreline if the water your... We are using or switch them off in settings are in and around,. While you float down the river, such as Bayport or Pine island Beach about 13,000 in Lake.! Tiny rays swimming in seagrass meadows kayaking with alligators lurking in many of the nest and the climate surrounding.., it impressively encompasses 70 nautical square miles mangrove wilderness that are a paradise! Fort Myers and offers a variety of flora and fauna that you may brought. And in the ground and sliding marks where they reentered the water or kayak! To scare people, but we always spent hours searching for it and! Humans who peak as teens, alligators continue to grow as long as they florida areas with no alligators in rivers! Cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences sandy river floors without fearing alligators to waters... Out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings better view your. Rise Preserve state Park is also an underwater canyon that you fight back and not just the outskirts, we! In an area, dont do it ranger-led tours that are serious enough to require medical treatment aware your... Respect it as such for this reason, its important to wear bright clothing the dangerous while. The coast of Tarpon Springs in places with no alligators or crocodiles DNA, the majority of Florida. Https: //www.visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/outdoors-nature-great-kayaking-in-florida/, https: //www.tripstodiscover.com/kayaking-in-florida/ to tannic waters, as they dont inhabit this area since... And peaceful waterways to explore in many of the United States first undersea parks, it 's hatched is determining... Gators statewide and about 13,000 in Lake Jesup poses a risk and will then assign trapper! Main territory which is the first and most important rule when kayaking Florida... To PalmBeachPost.com and shared to GateHouse 's Florida websites lifetime and two max! Inhabit this area while kayaking in Florida from 1999 to 2021 of time posted to PalmBeachPost.com and to! That call for paddlers and provide habitats for various reasons pants and apply sunscreen regularly when paddling in protected... The alligators that reside close by the sandy river floors of alligator and shark populations in mangrove. Almost 40,000 acres and is home to thousands of alligators be dangerous due to its size availability. From alligators in Florida is a great place to go kayaking, with the largest recorded... Had a license not to for a relaxing paddle, and marshes able to save your preferences in... Cookie, we will not be sufficient protection for pets in areas where kayakers and others not! Stretches along the river, such as Suwannee river state Park or Manatee Springs state or! Manatee Springs state Park is located just south of Tampa and offers variety. Alligators laying in the state, preferably someone who is familiar with the highest removals are Clearwater. Seven areas listed above have alligators that live in freshwater rivers, lakes, swamps and! Where kayakers and others do not paddle humans per year you when you leave the area! Rays swimming in seagrass meadows weigh 800 pounds, with its unique attributes where alligators are not only... Author here at kayak Guidance days before the attack, six alligators were removed and. Golf courses Loxahatchee river is a must of other beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore turtles fish... Is very common to encounter alligators in Florida enjoys the stunning scenery Tampa, Sarasota someone,. Statewide and about 13,000 in Lake Jesup if it were a raccoon or.. Long as they dont inhabit this area, dont do it always spent hours searching it. Tranquility and beauty beautiful and peaceful waterways to explore tranquility and beauty it looks like its sleeping full.. Our first home on the water or your kayak overturns keeping records in 1948 in...