I think your chances of a gator encounter are slimmer in the northern areas, for the reasons mentioned, and the chances go up the closer you are to water, but they aren't zero anywhere. They do move from pond to pond, especially during mating season. Generally not a threat to humans, but I have no desire to get up close and personal.
If I had a small pet I'd be very watchful.
If I wanted to live by a water feature , I'd be extra alert, but I wouldn't let the fear of alligators keep me from living there. I'd respect their presence, but enjoy the rare sighting as a benefit of living near the water.
|