Lake George, New York, does not have a native, wild alligator population. Alligators are not found in the wild anywhere in New York State, as the natural habitat and climate are unsuitable for their survival.
Why Lake George Isn’t Alligator Territory
Alligators are cold-blooded reptiles relying on external heat for body temperature regulation. They are most active between 82°F and 92°F, stopping feeding below 70°F and becoming dormant below 55°F. Lake George experiences harsh, prolonged winters with temperatures routinely dropping below freezing, often reaching 10°F in January and 19°F in December. These frigid conditions are too cold for alligators to sustain metabolic functions and long-term survival.
Alligators can enter brumation, a dormant state during colder periods, requiring burrows for shelter. However, Lake George’s water temperatures average 32-34°F in February and January, too cold for extended periods. Their eggs, whose sex is temperature-determined, would also not incubate successfully in New York’s cooler climate.
Alligators inhabit shallow, slow-moving freshwater environments like marshes, swamps, and lakes, requiring specific nesting vegetation. Lake George, however, is characterized by its significant depth (up to 187 feet) and cold temperatures, unsuitable for the shallow, marshy habitats alligators prefer. The local ecosystem would not support a sustained population of their typical prey, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and small mammals.
Dispelling Myths and Misidentifications
Reports of alligators in Lake George often stem from misidentification of native species. Large snapping turtles, especially common snapping turtles, are frequently mistaken for alligators due to their size, large heads, and long tails when partially submerged. Common snapping turtles can reach 8-14 inches (carapace) and weigh up to 45 pounds. The alligator snapping turtle, though larger and more prehistoric, is primarily found in the southeastern and midwestern United States, not in New York.
Other objects like floating logs or natural debris can be mistaken for large animals, contributing to false sightings. Urban legends or hoaxes may perpetuate such rumors. While rare, illegally released pets can occur; however, a single animal or a few individuals do not constitute a wild, self-sustaining population thriving in an unsuitable environment.
Native Wildlife of Lake George
Lake George and its surrounding Adirondack region host diverse native wildlife. The lake supports a rich fishery with over 36 fish species, including cold-water species like lake trout and salmon, and warm-water species such as smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and yellow perch.
The area’s wetlands and forests host various amphibians and reptiles. Common amphibians include bullfrogs, salamanders, and several frog and toad species. Reptiles found here include five turtle species, such as the common snapping turtle, and ten documented snake species, including the northern water snake and common garter snake.
Numerous bird species, both resident and migratory, frequent Lake George, including common loons, bald eagles, great blue herons, and various ducks. Mammals commonly observed in the Lake George watershed include white-tailed deer, raccoons, beavers, river otters, foxes, and occasionally black bears.