@nationalparkservice

“I'm just a baby” 🐊 Check out these young gators! Hatching typically occurs from mid-August through early-September following an incubation period of approximately 60 days. A baby alligator will grow up to be a very important part of the @Evergladesnps ecosystem. Alligators are generalist predators that eat a wide variety of prey, keeping many species in balance. The holes they dig during the dry season provide critical shelter for other wildlife. Nest mounds built by females during the wet season provide a place for other animals to lay their eggs, as well as a propogation site for young plants. Commonly used gator trails often form sloughs, deeper channels of water that provide aquatic animals space and shelter. If you happen upon a pod of hatchlings while visiting the park, remember to keep your distance (no less than 15 feet). Remember, momma is always nearby and ready to defend young ones when prompted by their calls! Image: A few young alligators rest on some vegetation. NPS/ Andres Del Rio #Everglades75th #Everglades #EvergladesNationalPark #FindYourPark #EncuentraTuParque #gators