American Alligator -- Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, Austwell TX USA
N 28° 18.449 W 096° 48.238
14R E 715332 N 3133222
The flora and fauna information sign about the American Alligator in the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, one of two flora and fauna signs at this freshwater slough location.
Waymark Code: WM161NJ
Location: Texas, United States
Date Posted: 04/14/2022
Views: 0
This flora and fauna information sign is one of two that are located near the wooden bridge over the Freshwater Slough that leads to a hiking trail at the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge near Austwell Texas.
The waymarked sign reads as follows:
"AMERICAN ALLIGATOR
(Alligator mississipiensis)
In 1967, the American alligator was listed as an endangered species. Thanks to conservation efforts and protection, this large reptile has made a significant comeback and was removed from the endangered species list in 1987.
Between April and June alligators begin to mate and lay eggs. Females build a nest of vegetation that forms a natural incubator. Warmer nest temperatures produce a majority of males, while cooler test temperatures primarily produce females. After 65 days, eight-inch hatchlings begin to emit a high-pitched croaking sound indicating to the female to dig them out.
Alligators are opportunistic feeders making any living animal in the water or coming into the water potential prey. They are known to feed on feral hogs, dear, have Alina, turtles, fish, birds, and even snakes.
For Your Safety and the Safety of Your Children and Pets
* Please keep your children near you at all times.
* Pets must be leashed at all times.
* Do not feed, harass, or approach an alligator.
American alligators are native to Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. They are found in lakes, rivers, marshes, and sloughs. Although they live most of their lives in freshwater, alligators can also be found in shallow bays when salinity levels are low. Alligators are exothermic meaning they rely on the outside temperature to regulate their own body temperature. They bask in the sun on warm days and are inactive during cold weather.
Please Do Your Part To Protect Wildlife:
* Observe wildlife from a distance
* Do not chase, harass, or feed wildlife
* Pets must be leashed at all times
[US Dept of the Interior logo] [US Fish & Wildlife logo]"
Visit Instructions:
Take a photo of yourself (and others) at the waymark and feel free to share any additional information or that is not contained on the sign or your experience generally.