American alligators have recently expanded their range into Tennessee, leading to confirmed sightings. While not historically native to the state, their presence is a result of natural expansion, indicating the species’ adaptability to new environments.
Alligator Presence in Tennessee
Alligator sightings in Tennessee are concentrated in the southwestern portion of the state, particularly in counties bordering the Mississippi River. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) has confirmed multiple sightings since 2018 in areas such as Shelby, Fayette, Hardin, Tipton, and Lauderdale counties. These regions offer suitable habitat with ample water sources and prey, connected to established alligator populations in neighboring states like Mississippi and Arkansas. While their presence is confirmed, alligators remain relatively uncommon in Tennessee compared to states further south, with a low overall population density. An isolated incident in March 2024 involved an alligator found in Norris Lake in East Tennessee, though this was believed to be an illegally released animal rather than part of a naturally expanding population.
Why Alligators Are Found in Tennessee
Alligators are increasingly found in Tennessee due to natural range expansion from neighboring southern states. They utilize shared waterways, especially the Mississippi River and its tributaries, as corridors to move northward. Additionally, suitable aquatic habitats in Western Tennessee, such as freshwater wetlands, rivers, and lakes, can support alligator populations. Milder winter temperatures, potentially influenced by climate change, also contribute to their ability to survive further north than previously typical. Alligators can endure colder periods by entering a state of dormancy called brumation, allowing them to survive under ice by keeping their snouts above the surface for breathing.
Encountering Alligators in Tennessee
Encountering an alligator in Tennessee requires caution and adherence to safety guidelines. It is important to maintain a safe distance, typically at least 30 feet, and never attempt to approach or feed these reptiles. Feeding alligators can cause them to lose their natural fear of humans, leading to potentially dangerous interactions.
When near water bodies, especially in confirmed alligator habitats, keeping pets on leashes is advisable, as they can be perceived as prey. Swimming should be limited to designated areas during daylight hours, as alligators are often more active at dusk and dawn. If an alligator is sighted in an unusual or concerning location, or if it appears to be a nuisance, contacting the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is the appropriate course of action. Possessing or releasing alligators in Tennessee is illegal and carries significant safety and ecological risks.