Alligator Sightingsโ Surge in Alabama: Top 5 Viewing Locations Revealed
MOBILE, Ala. – As Alabama’s โคalligator population continues to thrive, encountersโฃ with the reptiles โare becoming increasingly common across the state. Recent incidents, includingโค a 10-foot alligator halting traffic on I-165 in May 2024, highlight the growing โคpresenceโข of โthese apex predators and the needโ for public awareness. Now, World Atlas has pinpointed the โfive best locationsโฃ in Alabama to observe alligators in their natural habitat, offering both thrilling wildlife viewing opportunities and a reminder โof the importance โขof respecting these powerful โฃcreatures.
Alabama currently ranks sixth in the United States for alligator โขpopulation, estimated at 70,000 as of 2025, according to World Population Review. This robust population is fueled by successful conservationโข efforts and the state’s diverseโฃ wetland ecosystems. Understanding where alligators โcongregateโค is crucial for bothโค enthusiasts seeking a glimpse of these ancient reptiles and residents wanting to coexistโข safely.World Atlas identifies the following as prime alligator viewing destinations:
- Alligator Alley (Summerdale): โฃ This park, established in 2004 asโ a refuge for “nuisance” gators, is home to rescued giants, including several 13-foot alligators, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
- gulf State Park (Gulf Shores): โ Boasting โฃ800โข acres across three lakes, the park’s Nature Centre features captive alligators, while the surrounding wetlands โofferโฃ opportunities for spotting โwild individuals.
- Bonโค Secour National Wildlifeโข Refuge (Fort Morgan): protecting 7,000 acres of untouched habitat,โ this refuge โขprovides a haven for alligators and a chance to observe them in a pristine environment.
- Dauphin Island: This barrier โisland offers its own “gatorโฃ gallery” within its diverse coastal ecosystems.
- Mobile-Tensaw Delta: โ This expansive river delta, encompassing over 250,000 acres ofโค swamps and waterways, is a prime location for alligator sightings, including the potential for observing large specimens like โฃthe 12-foot-9, 524-pound gator caught in the โคarea in 2023.
Experts emphasize the importance of maintaining a safe distance from alligators and never โattempting to feed or interact with them. Whileโข generally shy,alligators can become defensive if provoked. Reporting nuisance alligators to local wildlife authorities is encouraged to ensure both public safetyโ and the well-being of the animals.