Story perspectives

Florida's Alligator Population Soars: 1.3 Million Counted

9/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Florida hosts around 1.3 million alligators across all 67 counties.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission performs annual alligator population censuses.
The St. Johns River leads with over 5,100 alligators, followed by the Kissimmee River (2,380), Harney River (1,570), Withlacoochee River (under 600), and Myakka River (230).
Residents should not feed alligators and must keep pets leashed near water.
For issues, contact the nuisance alligator hotline at 866-392-4286.

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Story summary

Florida hosts around 1.3 million alligators across all 67 counties.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission performs annual alligator population censuses.
The St. Johns River leads with over 5,100 alligators, followed by the Kissimmee River (2,380), Harney River (1,570), Withlacoochee River (under 600), and Myakka River (230).
Residents should not feed alligators and must keep pets leashed near water.
For issues, contact the nuisance alligator hotline at 866-392-4286.