Alligator mating season begins: What you need to know

It's moving and mating season for Florida's estimated 1.2 million alligators, and experts are warning people to be aware of their surroundings. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, courtship begins in early April, and mating occurs in May or June. Females build a mound nest of soil, vegetation, or debris and deposit an average of 32 to 46 eggs in late June or early July. Incubation requires approximately 63-68 days, and hatching occurs from mid-August through early September.All that alligator activity can lead to unwanted appearances and interactions with humans.FWC officials recommend pet owners keep their animals on leashes and away from the water. Wildlife officials say alligators increasing their movements means it's more important than ever to not feed them and not make them feel like it's okay to be up close.Officials also say you should never deal with an alligator yourself. Call FWC so an expert trapper can capture the alligator. Click here for the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program

It's moving and mating season for Florida's estimated 1.2 million alligators, and experts are warning people to be aware of their surroundings.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, courtship begins in early April, and mating occurs in May or June.

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Females build a mound nest of soil, vegetation, or debris and deposit an average of 32 to 46 eggs in late June or early July. Incubation requires approximately 63-68 days, and hatching occurs from mid-August through early September.

All that alligator activity can lead to unwanted appearances and interactions with humans.

FWC officials recommend pet owners keep their animals on leashes and away from the water.

Wildlife officials say alligators increasing their movements means it's more important than ever to not feed them and not make them feel like it's okay to be up close.

Officials also say you should never deal with an alligator yourself. Call FWC so an expert trapper can capture the alligator.

Click here for the Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program