American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) are native to North Carolina, inhabiting its coastal regions. They have a long history in the state. Their populations faced significant declines in the past due to habitat loss and unregulated hunting, but conservation efforts have led to a substantial comeback. North Carolina represents the northernmost extent of the American alligator’s natural range, where they are an integrated part of the state’s diverse ecosystem. Approximately a few thousand alligators are estimated to reside within the state, primarily concentrated in its eastern half.
Where Alligators Are Found in North Carolina
American alligators in North Carolina primarily inhabit the state’s Coastal Plain, a low-lying region with abundant water sources. Their preferred habitats include freshwater and estuarine environments such as bay lakes, rivers, creeks, marshes, swamps, ponds, and canals. While they generally prefer fresh to brackish waters, alligators can tolerate higher salinity levels for short periods and are occasionally observed in tidal basins or even on beaches.
Highest concentrations are in the southeastern part of the state. Counties with significant alligator populations include Brunswick, New Hanover, Onslow, Pender, Columbus, and Craven. Other counties in their range extend as far west as Robeson and Cumberland, and northward to Gates County and the Albemarle Sound region, including Dare, Tyrrell, and Hyde counties. The extensive waterways and dense vegetation in these coastal areas provide ideal conditions for alligators, offering ample food sources and suitable environments for basking and denning.
North Carolina’s cooler winters mean alligators experience slower growth rates and reproduce less frequently than in more southerly states. Despite being at the northern limit of their range, areas like the Cape Fear River basin, Lake Waccamaw, Orton Pond, and the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge have healthy alligator populations. Alligators build dens with submerged entrances and help maintain wetland ecosystems by creating “alligator holes” that provide habitat for other species.
Safe Interactions with Alligators
Coexisting with alligators in North Carolina requires understanding their behavior and adhering to safety guidelines. Alligators are naturally wary of humans and prefer to maintain a safe distance. Always keep at least 60 feet from any alligator you encounter. Never approach, harass, or feed an alligator, as feeding them causes them to lose their natural fear of humans and associate people with food, which can lead to dangerous situations. Intentionally feeding an alligator is unlawful in North Carolina.
When in areas where alligators may be present, always keep pets on a leash and prevent them from swimming or drinking in the water. Alligators may mistake pets for their natural prey. Similarly, young children should be closely supervised and never left unattended near any body of water. Exercise caution between dusk and dawn, as alligators are most active during these times. Avoid swimming in areas with dense vegetation, which alligators use for cover, and only swim in designated areas during daylight hours.
If an alligator approaches you, slowly back away to a safe distance. Alligators may perform a “bluff lunge” by opening their mouth, hissing, and moving slightly forward if they feel threatened; moving away from the alligator and the water can de-escalate the situation. If an alligator attacks, fighting back by targeting sensitive areas such as the eyes or snout can cause it to release its grip. On land, running in a straight line is the most effective escape strategy, as alligators can sprint for short distances but tire quickly. American alligators are protected in North Carolina, classified as a threatened species, making it illegal to harm or kill them; if an alligator poses a threat to people or property, contact the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission for assistance.