It is common for people to wonder if alligators reside in Missouri’s waterways. While the state is not part of their native range, their presence has specific nuances.
Alligator Presence in Missouri
Alligators are not native to Missouri; they do not naturally occur or establish breeding populations. However, there have been rare, isolated sightings across the state. These occurrences typically result from animals escaping captivity, being illegally released by private owners, or, rarely, wandering north from southern states.
States further south, such as Louisiana, Florida, and Texas, possess large, native alligator populations. Alligators have been observed in Missouri lakes, including Wappapello Lake in 2023 and Bonne Terre Lake in 2024. An alligator was also spotted in a St. Louis neighborhood in 2019, likely an escaped pet.
Factors Limiting Alligator Population
Missouri’s climate significantly limits the establishment of alligator populations. Alligators are cold-blooded reptiles that rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. They become inactive and stop feeding when temperatures drop below approximately 70°F and enter a state of brumation, similar to hibernation, below 55°F.
Missouri experiences frequent temperature fluctuations and consistently cold winters, with some areas averaging at least 70 days a year below freezing temperatures. This lack of consistent warmth prevents alligators from thriving and reproducing. Missouri also lacks the extensive, deep, and warm wetland systems, such as swamps and marshes, alligators require for year-round survival. While alligators are expanding their range northward due to rising global temperatures, Missouri’s current environmental conditions remain unsuitable for widespread colonization.
Reporting Alligator Sightings
Encountering an alligator in Missouri is an unusual event, and it is important to know how to respond safely. Individuals should never approach, feed, or attempt to interact with an alligator. Always maintain a safe distance for both personal safety and the animal’s well-being.
If an alligator is sighted, it is important to report the observation to the appropriate authorities. Contacting the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) or local law enforcement, such as animal control, allows trained professionals to assess the situation. Reporting these rare sightings is important for public safety, as it helps authorities manage potential risks. It also assists wildlife management efforts, allowing officials to safely capture and relocate alligators that may have been illegally released or escaped from private ownership.