Alligators, often referred to as modern-day dinosaurs, are one of the most fascinating creatures in the world. With their prehistoric appearance and incredible adaptability, they have captured the imagination of many across the United States. While Florida and Louisiana are often thought of as the alligator capitals, Alabama is home to thousands of these incredible reptiles. From swamps to rivers, here are five of the most alligator-filled places in Alabama that you should definitely check out.
1. Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge
The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, located along the Tennessee River in northern Alabama, is one of the first places where alligators were relocated back in the late 1970s. In 1979, the Fish and Wildlife Service moved around 50 alligators from Louisiana to the area to help restore their dwindling population and to control the growing beaver population. Initially met with resistance from locals, the alligator population in Wheeler has thrived, and the reptiles have even moved further north, with sightings reported in the city of Huntsville. The refuge remains a hotspot for these reptiles, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to spot an alligator in Alabama.
2. Walter F. George Lake (Lake Eufaula)
Straddling the border between Alabama and Georgia, Walter F. George Lake, also known as Lake Eufaula, is a large body of water that spans over 45,000 acres. This lake is home to some of the largest alligators in the region. In 2024, a 12-foot, 600-pound alligator was pulled from its waters, but that wasn’t the largest ever recorded. A 13-foot-6-inch, 920-pound gator was caught in 2015, and the record-holder is believed to be a massive 14-foot-long, 1,000-pound gator hunted in 2019. Lake Eufaula is one of five Alligator Management Areas in Alabama, and it offers hunting seasons for gators, though there are strict regulations about what can be hunted and when. If you’re lucky, you might even spot one of these monsters basking in the sun.
3. Alabama River
The Alabama River, which stretches over 300 miles from the northeast part of the state to the south-central area near Mobile, is home to a large population of alligators. These creatures can be found throughout the river, with frequent sightings near Montgomery, Monroeville, and Camden. The Alabama River is famous for yielding the state’s largest known alligator, a massive 15-foot-long, 1,011-pound gator that was caught near Camden in 2014. As the river passes through various towns and recreational areas, gator sightings are not uncommon, and residents and visitors alike need to remain cautious. The alligator-filled waters of the Alabama River provide a unique experience for those brave enough to venture out.
4. Mobile Bay
Mobile Bay, located on Alabama’s Gulf Coast near the city of Mobile, is another prime location for spotting alligators. Though alligators typically prefer freshwater, they can also tolerate brackish and saltwater, making Mobile Bay an ideal home. Spanning around 400 square miles, Mobile Bay is part of the Coastal Management Area, a region known for its gator population. Big gators, such as a 12-foot-9-inch, 524-pound gator caught in 2023, are not uncommon in this area. Alligator Alley, a sanctuary for nuisance gators, is also located nearby in Summerdale, where tourists can learn more about the reptiles. If you’re driving in the area, be aware that alligators sometimes venture onto the roads, with one recent 10-foot gator even blocking traffic on Interstate 165.
5. Gulf Coast (Gulf Shores and Dauphin Island)
Alabama’s Gulf Coast is another prime location for alligators, particularly in the marshlands and estuaries along the coast. Gulf Shores State Park, located just east of Gulf Shores, spans 6,150 acres and provides an excellent habitat for alligators. The park features three lakes, totaling more than 800 acres, where visitors can spot alligators in their natural environment. To the west of Gulf Shores, you’ll find the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, which covers around 7,000 acres of untouched wetlands. Dauphin Island, just south of the mainland, is another hotspot for gators, with many residing in the coastal waters. The region is also home to the Gulf Islands National Seashore, a protected area that provides sanctuary for alligators and other wildlife.
Conclusion
Alligators are a fascinating part of Alabama’s wildlife, and the state is home to some of the most alligator-filled places in the country. From the northern Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge to the southern Gulf Coast, Alabama offers a range of alligator habitats, each with its own unique charm and opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these five locations are must-visit spots to catch a glimpse of these prehistoric creatures in action. Just remember to stay safe and respect their space while exploring the wilds of Alabama.
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