American Alligators (Gators) as well as all bird images in this gallery are exclusively in the wild. Gators are not fed, fenced in or cared for by humans. They are free to roam as they so wish and dine on whatever pleases their palate. Humans must use caution and remain at a safe distance from these alligators who appear very lazy although can become very quick and agile without any advance notice, especially if confronted. Do not confuse these with what you have seen in Zoos or Gator preserves. I was quite fortunate to come across a mother Gator with her pod of baby gators at about 6 weeks of age. Locals indicate that the original hatchlings were numbered at 16 although what remains is probably a few less. Birds of prey are quite common in the immediate area and to make matters worst mother has to fight off her mate who occasionally comes around in the hope of eating the baby gators. The group of babies (called a Pod) are protected by the female for about a year. Alligator moms are among the most nurturing of the reptiles.