We were not sure what to expect when we decided to visit Alligator Alley. As residents of Cincinnati, we were blissfully aware that we could wander near waterways without much to fear. We were concerned it was a “tourist trap” or that the alligators would be in sad surroundings. But once we arrived at Alligator Alley all preconceived notions disappeared and we found a great deal of respect for these animals and the mission of the staff.
This facility is a refuge with many alligators having been relocated here after they got “too close for comfort” to humans. Growing suburban sprawl has encroached on their territory for years and alligators have found themselves in dangerous situations. In 2004, Wes Moore opened this alligator farm in Summerdale (in the Gulf Shores area) and it was designed to give them a home in a natural environment.
The Alley is a welcoming place for humans as well. Well laid out and easy to walk, taking a tour will surely delight all ages.
The Swamp is an amazing area where visitors safely walk along raised platforms with wonderful views of the alligators in a natural and safe habitat. You cannot miss Captain Crunch (all 2,982 pounds of him!). He does not play well with others and enjoys his own area, and you can imagine how he got his name!
Along the way you can stop at the elevated observation area and see over 200 alligators sunbathing, courting, nesting and generally relaxing. Visit young gators in separate enclosures and keep an eye out for other animals such as turtles, owls, ospreys and bull frogs.
Other fun things to do include feeding the alligators with “gator chow” that comes in a souvenir cup that you can purchase and keep; holding an alligator-with assistance, you can hold a 3 year old, this is a great way to safely learn more about these fascinating animals. Keepers are available to help you with these experiences and answer your questions.
Be sure to catch one of the daily feedings of these large animals, visitors gather at the grandstand for an educational lesson while watching the keepers feed these giants. It’s truly an experience you won’t forget!
ALLIGATOR FACTS from www.gatoralleyfarm.com:
• Alligators grow to a maximum length of 14 feet. Specimens over 13 feet are rare.
• Alligators of 10 feet & above can have as much as 1,800 pounds of bite (true pounds, not per square inch).
• An alligator’s life expectancy is 50 years maximum. To date, 56 is the oldest on record.
• Females grow to a max size of 10 feet & there are no external differences between sexes.
• An average clutch size is around 35 eggs.
• Large alligators can go as long as 18 months with no food!
This length of time is rare but not impossible.
• Turtles make up the vast majority of an alligators diet,
as do otters, beavers, snakes, frogs, birds and the occasional fish.
Admission charged.
Gift shop, snacks and restrooms on premises.
Special events throughout the year. Hours of operation and feeding times vary, please check in advance.
Visit www.gatoralleyfarm.com for complete details.
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