Lately, the town of Southport, North Carolina has had some excitement, 20 alligator removals since May, setting a new record. For a resident named Bonner Herring and his trusty Labrador Strike, that almost ended in tragedy. In this episode, Shoresides catches up with them to hear their story and to wonder about the prospect of increased human-alligator conflict in coastal communities.
Here are five key things to know about alligators in North Carolina:
1. Where Alligators Live in North Carolina
Alligators are native to the southeastern corner of North Carolina, primarily in the coastal plain. They are commonly found in:
- Swamps
- Marshes
- Rivers
- Lakes
- Canals
The northernmost limit of the American alligator's natural range includes parts of Brunswick, New Hanover, Pender, and Onslow counties, although occasional sightings occur farther north due to dispersal.
2. Alligators Are Protected
In North Carolina, alligators are classified as a species of special concern. This means:
- It is illegal to hunt, harm, harass, or kill them without a specific permit.
- The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission manages alligator populations through careful monitoring and regulated removals in cases where safety is at risk.
- In some years, the state authorizes limited hunting through an alligator management program, but only under strict controls.
3. Alligator Encounters Are Increasing
Due to rising populations and human development expanding into natural habitats, sightings have become more frequent. Important things to remember:
- Do not feed alligators—this is illegal and makes them more dangerous.
- Keep a safe distance (at least 60 feet).
- If you see an alligator near homes or public areas, report it to wildlife authorities if it poses a risk.
4. Alligators and Cold Weather
North Carolina is near the northern edge of the alligator's habitat, so they have unique ways of surviving winter:
- Alligators brumate, which is similar to hibernation, becoming inactive during cold months.
- They use a technique called “icing” or “snorkeling”, where they keep their snout above frozen water to breathe while remaining submerged beneath the ice.
- They can survive brief freezes, but prolonged cold can be fatal, which naturally limits how far north they can thrive.
5. Conservation and Coexistence
Alligators play an important role in the ecosystem by:
- Controlling prey populations (such as turtles, fish, and small mammals).
- Creating “gator holes”, which provide habitat for other wildlife during droughts.
For safety and conservation: - Never attempt to relocate or handle an alligator on your own.
- Teach children about alligator safety, especially near coastal waterways.
- Support conservation efforts that protect wetlands and preserve balanced ecosystems.
If you'd like, I can help you find local guides, safety tips, or educational resources for schools and community groups in North Carolina. Would you like me to gather those?
