Wildlife Spotlight: Alligator
Alligator
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The American alligator is one of the most commonly seen wildlife species
in Florida. Alligators and other crocodilians are the only living Archosauria,
the ancient group that included dinosaurs. They have many features more
similar to birds or mammals than to other reptiles. The snouts of alligators
are broad and rounded whereas those of the much rarer crocodile are
longer and more pointed. Alligators play a key role in the Everglades
and other wetlands. During times of drought they dig holes that fill
with groundwater. During dry periods, these alligator holes are an important
source of freshwater for birds and mammals and are critical to the survival
of many aquatic species. Since 1988, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission has held a public waters - alligator
harvest. Each year Alligator
Harvest Management Units, including the Holey Land WMA, are established
with conservative harvest quotas.
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