When Do Alligators Eat, Should Tourists Be Scared?

 

American alligators are apex predators, meaning they don't have natural predators. They are opportunistic in the sense that they are not picky eaters and eat whatever they can get on. They do not like to exert much effort hunting for food and prefer chowing on animals that they can easily take on. They settle for prey that are easier to get, like bugs, fish, crabs, turtles and other animals, even tadpoles.

They occasionally feast on bigger prey like rodents, raccoons, dogs, or whoever gets too close to their habitat. They usually avoid preying on animals that they cannot eat in one gulp because their jaws are not made for chewing. When they chance upon a large prey, they save it for later. What they do is pin the food first under logs or rocks and wait for them to rot or soften up before eating them.

Alligators are Efficient Predators 

They hunt their prey brutally and ruthlessly. Below are some of the reasons why alligators are one of the most efficient predators.

Alligators are Best in Waiting Game

They only need to eat once a week if they have a big meal. They are good at lying down, waiting for the potential food to come near, and then they attack super-duper quickly.

Alligators are Good at Hiding

They are intelligent enough not to exert too much effort in hunting their prey. Alligators are good at disguising, their skin effortlessly blending into the brackish water. It is almost always too late for preys to realize that they are the gators' next meal.