Jacksonville, N.C. -- American alligators are part of the natural fauna in the coastal region of North Carolina, inhabiting freshwater bay lakes, rivers, creeks, marshes, swamps, and ponds. While the largest populations of alligators are found in Brunswick, New Hanover, Craven, Onslow and Pender counties, local populations are distributed in patches along the entire North Carolina coast. MCB Camp Lejeune and MCAS New River are no exception and alligator sightings are regularly reported to base wildlife staff.
Despite their intimidating appearance, alligators are relatively secretive and shy — traits that can disappear and make them a public safety issue if they are habitually fed by humans.
It is illegal to feed, harm, harass or poach an alligator in North Carolina. While they rarely pose a threat to humans, alligators can become a nuisance when people either intentionally or unintentionally feed them, which causes them to associate humans with an easy meal.
Alligators become more active as temperatures warm in early spring and will remain active, relatively speaking, through the fall. In most cases, an alligator within the installation will not be relocated unless it is displaying aggressive behavior, causing a public safety issue (blocking a road, in a building, on the airfield, etc.), or if the safety of the animal is at risk. An alligator seen in an unusual place will most often move away on its own within a few hours to a couple of weeks.
Here are a few tips for coexisting with alligators:
- DO NOT feed alligators: Intentionally or unintentionally (improper disposal of bait/trash) feeding alligators is unlawful in NC. Be sure to properly dispose of trash. If fed, an alligator will eventually lose its fear of humans and associate humans with food.
- DO NOT handle or harass alligators: It is illegal to handle or harass alligators in NC. Give them time and space and they will typically move on from the area.
- DO keep all pets on leashes: An alligator’s natural prey includes small-medium mammals. They can’t tell the difference between a wild animal and a pet. Pets should not be allowed in or near water that may contain alligators. Obey all local leash laws.
- DO supervise children near water: Watch young children closely and never leave them unattended near any body of water. Children should not be allowed to swim, play, or recreate in or near waters that may contain alligators.
For more information on alligators or other wildlife questions, contact Camp Lejeune Land and Wildlife Resources at CLJN_LWRS@USMC.MIL or 451-5226.