You are most likely to spot an alligator in these North Carolina locations. See this map
Alligators may not wander the streets of uptown Charlotte, but there are still plenty of places in North Carolina where you may stumble upon one of the reptiles.
And if you come face to face with one, there are things you should and shouldn’t do to keep yourself safe.
Here’s what to know about alligators in North Carolina and what to do if you see one:
Alligators in NC
According to the state’s Wildlife Resources Commission, alligators can be found in North Carolina’s Coastal Plain, especially the southern portion of the region. This low-lying part of the state features the kinds of bodies of water and swamps and marsh that American alligators call home.
Check out the map below to see all of the spots where you might see an alligator in North Carolina:
What to do if you see an alligator
Although alligator attacks are rare, there are things you can do to avoid having issues if you’re in an area where they may live, the University of Georgia’s Savannah River Ecology Laboratory advises.
“Concerns about having negative encounters with alligators can largely be dissolved with common sense and an understanding of alligator behavior,” the group says.
“A most important rule” to remember is never to feed alligators because you can put yourself at risk, harm the alligator’s health, and encourage the alligator to try to interact with humans in the future.
Alligators “can move with a startling burst of speed on land over short distances,” so you should keep your distance if you see one and never try to corner one. You should also never try to move an alligator and “avoid swimming in areas that are known habitats for large alligators.”
Never mess with an alligator nest or young alligators because “some female alligators protect their young and may become aggressive if provoked.”
