Are there alligators in the Wekiva River?
Wekiwa Springs State Park That’s a 17 percent jump from the previous period. Although the springs feed the Wekiva River, it’s highly unusual for an alligator to venture into the swimming area during the day while people are enjoying the water.
Is it safe to kayak in water with alligators?
Though there’s a certain level of risk involved with each outing, kayaking with alligators is safe if you remain alert. They won’t attack indiscriminately, and rarely will they stay in the same area as a kayaker. Still, it’s important to remember you’re a visitor in their territory, and you should respect it as such.
Do alligators ever attack kayaks?
Alligators attack kayaks because they often carry food in them, while humans can be a source of food for the crocs. Crocodiles also attack kayaks because they often carry food in them, so it is easy to take down a human carrying food from the boat into the water.
Can you swim in the Wekiva River?
Due to the shallow nature of the spring, diving and jumping are not permitted. Use of scuba and other tank-assisted or tethered hookah breathing systems are not permitted. Swimming is not permitted in Wekiwa Springs Run, Rock Springs Run or the Wekiva River.
Are there alligators in Rock Springs?
Yes, alligators are sometimes found at Kelly Park/Rock Springs.
Why are there no alligators in springs?
The water is too cold for them! The Ichetucknee River -due to it’s spring fed source- stays a consistent 72 to 73 degrees year round. Alligators are ectothermic- they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature.
How do you tell if there is an alligator in the water?
Telltale Signs Check around the sides of the pond for large indentations in the mud or bank. Also, look for a slide area, stretching from the bank into the pond water. These two easily discernible signs indicate an alligator’s presence.
What to do if you encounter an alligator in the water?
If you spot a gator while on the water, respect its space. Even worse, people will feed them. Then the reptiles start to associate humans with food. That’s when gators can be most dangerous — when they’ve lost their natural fear or disinterest in people.