WARNING! It's Alligator Mating Season in Florida

Florida is home to a wide variety of wildlife, and the Disney World bubble is not immune to a few wild critters — and no, we aren’t talking about the animals inside of Animal Kingdom.

Seven Seas Lagoon

There are signs all over the resort, especially around bodies of water, warning of gators and snakes. In 2023, almost half of Magic Kingdom was closed temporarily as teams worked to remove a black bear from Tom Sawyer Island.

Alligator mating season has started in Florida, and here is why you need to be aware.

According to News 6, Florida residents and tourists can expect to see more alligators out and about as their mating season has officially started. Cities near Disney World have started to issue warnings to residents about the dangers that can lurk in the water.

Skyliner over Hourglass Lake

The former president of the Central Florida Herpetological Society, James Peters, warns that “Alligators can become somewhat aggressive, especially towards people and pets.” It is important to remember that at any time of the year, every body of water in Florida could potentially have an alligator in it” (yes, even at Disney World). You should avoid walking your dog or your children next to a body of water, especially as the sun starts to set or late at night.

Quincy and Lagoona Gator

A low rumble is also a way to recognize that male alligators may be nearby. This is their way of letting female alligators know that they are around. You should also never feed an alligator, as it is illegal and dangerous. This can cause alligators to lose their fear of humans, which means they may start to approach humans more often for food, which puts everyone in a dangerous position. You should be cautious about alligator eggs. These nests look like big mounds, so you will want to steer clear, as alligator moms are protective.

Jungle Cruise Gators

Unfortunately, an alligator attack took place at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort in 2016, resulting in the loss of a young boy’s life. Since then, Disney has taken extra precautions by adding fences and signs near bodies of water on their property.

Warning signs at Disney World

It is always a good idea to be extra cautious around any body of water in Florida, and remember to stay safe! As mating season continues, alligators may venture into areas they typically would not. Residents can call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Statewide Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286).