Are alligators posing a new threat to humans?
The first documented severe alligator bite on a human occurred in 1948. It is important to remember that alligators are large, top-level predators capable of inflicting severe bites on humans, even causing death. That’s why it is so important for people to use common sense when dealing with this species. Human encounters with alligators are increasing because Florida’s human population is growing, and many residents seek waterfront homes, and water-related recreational activities are very popular. As more people are drawn to the water, more alligator-human interactions can occur, creating a greater potential for conflict. However, alligators seldom bite people, and fatalities from such occurrences are extremely rare. Florida is averaging about seven unprovoked bites per year serious enough to require special medical treatment. The frequency of these serious bites is increasing at a rate of about 3 percent each year or one additional bite every 4-5 years.
