Alligators are a constant presence in Florida's wetlands, and after years of hiking these areas, I've become comfortable with that. Most of my photography happens along the berm roads that cross managed wetland areas, where gators are a reliable fixture: sunbathing on the banks, half-submerged at the water's edge, or occasionally parked squarely in the middle of the trail, requiring a retreat and a different route. Before approaching the water's edge for a shot, I always scan the grass carefully, a habit that's served me well. In truth, my encounters have been remarkably uneventful. I follow a few basic rules: never approach an alligator, maintain at least 20 feet of distance, and treat any hissing or open-mouth display as a clear signal to back away slowly. During mating season, May through September, alligators are more active and considerably more territorial, particularly females guarding nests. A wide berth is simply good sense. They are, in their own way, magnificent animals. And sharing the habitat with them is part of what makes photographing these wetlands feel like the privilege it is.
