Feeding alligators is death sentence

  • Published
  • By Katie Boles
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Feeding the alligators at Mission Lake may seem like a good idea, but a base biologist here warns it could lead to disastrous results for these swamp creatures.

Moody is home to various species of wildlife, including numerous alligators. They can often be observed sunning on the banks of Mission Lake, or even occasionally strolling across base.

Gregory Lee, 23rd Civil Engineer Squadron biological scientist, has worked with the alligators on base for the last 10 years. Despite constant efforts from Mr. Lee and several signs posted around Mission Lake warning people about the dangers of feeding the alligators, it is still being done.

When people start feeding the 'gators,' they start to associate people with food, which causes problems, said Mr. Lee. "People are the number one problem with the alligators."

These alligators can vary in sizes from small babies, to six feet and larger. Once these alligators become comfortable around humans, safety issues arise, said Mr. Lee.

"The alligators at Mission Lake seem to be very interested in people; it is early for that to occur, so there is evidence people have been feeding them this year," said Mr. Lee. "We used to relocate them, but we found out that if we carry them three to five miles away, they come back within three months."

"We have done extensive public education through the use of articles in the paper, briefings at the Right Start Newcomer's Briefing and the placing of warning signs around the lake," said Mr. Lee. "If we have to catch an alligator, it is turned over to the state alligator trapper and dispatched (killed).

"People have co-existed with alligators for hundreds of years, and alligator attacks don't just happen," said Mr. Lee. "In Georgia there has been only one fatality since the 20th century, accidents don't just happen. Any injury caused has been because people are feeding the alligators. There has never been an unprovoked attack on record here."

He also stressed that feeding the alligators is against state law and base policy. Anyone caught feeding them are subject to prosecution under state and federal laws.

"When food is involved, alligators quickly become conditioned to humans," said Odin Stephens, United States Department of Agriculture wildlife biologist. "These alligators lose their fear of humans and can be dangerous to unsuspecting people, especially children.

"Moody AFB is an excellent habitat for alligators; every ditch and puddle may be occupied," added Mr. Stephens. "Be aware that for every alligator you see at Mission Lake, there are two more you don't. People should not feed or harass alligators and all nuisance alligators should be reported."