When will alligators return to the SC Lowcountry? Sooner than you may think
In the South Carolina Lowcountry, alligators are a familiar sight.
Whether basking by a marsh, prowling golf courses or lurking in local waterways, these reptiles are a constant presence.
But as the cooler months set in, it’s not uncommon for alligators to seemingly vanish.
Don’t be fooled — they haven’t left for good. As temperatures dip, these creatures are simply taking a seasonal break, retreating into their underground hideouts .
Here’s what to know and when they emerge from their winter slumber.
So, where do alligators go?
When temperatures fall below 70 degrees, alligators begin a behavior known as brumation. Unlike hibernation, which is a deep, sleep-like state, brumation is a dormant period for cold-blooded animals, the South Carolina Aquarium states.
Alligators remain inactive but don’t completely shut down. They still drink water to stay hydrated and might occasionally emerge to bask in the sun on warmer days.
To escape on chillier days, alligators dig long mudholes, sometimes referred to as “gator holes,” using their tails. These burrows can be up to 65 feet in length and offer protection from the cold for the alligators to survive until temperatures rise again.
When will alligators return?
The South Carolina Aquarium states that the brumation period lasts anywhere from four to five months, generally stretching from November through February.
But if temperatures spike above the 70 degree threshold, these reptiles may make an early appearance.
Typically, alligator activity peaks between 82 and 92 degrees.
What happens during snow and ice?
For two years in a row, South Carolina has experienced a winter rarity: snowfall.
When the cold does intensify, alligators must adjust.
When alligators are burrowed in the cold, they will come stick their snouts out every 12 or so hours to get some fresh air. If it’s icy, they can break through it to reach the surface and continue breathing.
Once they’ve gotten their fill of oxygen, they’ll retreat back into their holes to await more moderate temperatures.
With spring and summer right around the corner, there’s no doubt these reptiles will be out and about soon.
If you ever encounter an alligator, it’s important to note that it is illegal for any person to feed or entice an alligator with food.
For more information on South Carolina’s alligators, click here to visit the Department of Natural Resources webpage.
