Alligators are native to Mississippi and can be found throughout the state. The American alligator ( Alligator mississippiensis ) is even the official state reptile of Mississippi.
Alligator Habitats in Mississippi
Alligators in Mississippi are primarily found in freshwater environments, including marshes, swamps, rivers, ponds, lakes, and bayous. They have a low tolerance for saltwater, though they can sometimes be found in brackish water settings. Alligators are present in nearly every county, but their distribution is more concentrated in the southern and central regions of the state.
The southeastern region, especially the Pascagoula River Basin, has a notable concentration of alligators. Jackson County, with its extensive natural wetlands, is home to a significant population. Other counties with substantial alligator populations include Hancock and Rankin, particularly around Ross Barnett Reservoir and the Pearl River.
Alligator Population and Management
The American alligator population in Mississippi has recovered significantly from historical lows, when they were listed as an endangered species in 1967. By 1987, the species was removed from endangered status, and populations across the Southeast, including Mississippi, began a rapid recovery. Currently, Mississippi is estimated to have a healthy and stable alligator population, ranging from 32,000 to 39,000 individuals.
The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) manages the alligator population. Their efforts include monitoring populations through surveys, such as night-light counts, to estimate numbers and observe distribution. Regulated hunting seasons are part of this strategy. Hunting permits are required, and specific regulations, such as bag limits, ensure sustainable harvest.
Living Alongside Alligators
Alligators are generally reclusive and do not naturally seek out human interaction. Attacks on humans are rare, and many incidents are incidental rather than predatory. It is important to maintain a safe distance from alligators and never feed them, as feeding causes them to lose their natural wariness of humans and associate people with food. This behavior can lead to alligators becoming a nuisance and potentially dangerous.
When in areas where alligators are present, keeping pets on leashes and away from the water’s edge is advisable, as pets can resemble an alligator’s natural prey. Swimming in designated areas during daylight hours can also reduce potential encounters, as alligators are more active between dusk and dawn. If an alligator is spotted in an unusual location, such as a swimming pool or garage, or if it exhibits aggressive behavior, it is appropriate to contact wildlife officials. The MDWFP defines a nuisance alligator as one that shows aggression, seeks handouts, or is in a place it clearly does not belong.