March 10, 2010

A short lesson about alligators. First of all, they grow about 1 foot a year until they reach 6 feet. So a 4 foot alligator would be around 4 years old. Second - they prefer to be above ground but near water. They use the water as their cooling system as they don't have the thermometer that we mammals do. Third, they don't eat much. An 8 foot alligator is happy with a 5 or 6 pound chicken or the equivalent once a week. As they don't metabolize as other animals do, they really don't need much food. And this is an important one - 4th, they only eat when they are hungry, unlike crocodiles that eat just because they can.

We are still at the Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, going to visit with our friend Debbie tomorrow and unless something exciting happens, you won't hear from us until next week.

Have a good week.