american alligators

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KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An alligator lurks in the murky, mossy waters of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge at Kennedy Space Center. Its tail surfaces behind him, looking like a log in the water. The wildlife refuge harbors nearly 5,000 American alligators, some of which can be seen in the canals and ponds around KSC. The refuge is also habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The open water provides wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl and a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds KSC-99wl09

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An alligator lurks in the murky, mossy w...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An alligator lurks in the murky, mossy waters of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge at Kennedy Space Center. Its tail surfaces behind him, looking like a log in the water.... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the bank of a levee near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy Space Center, an alligator suns itself with a wary eye out for trespassers. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with the Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC00pp0264

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the bank of a levee near Schwartz Rd....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the bank of a levee near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy Space Center, an alligator suns itself with a wary eye out for trespassers. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, pond... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This pond near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy Space Center is host to a least the nine alligators shown on the banks and in the water. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with the Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC00pp0265

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This pond near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy S...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This pond near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy Space Center is host to a least the nine alligators shown on the banks and in the water. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, pond... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This pond near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy Space Center is host to a least the nine alligators shown on the banks and in the water. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with the Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0265

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This pond near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy S...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This pond near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy Space Center is host to a least the nine alligators shown on the banks and in the water. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, pond... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On top of what may be a nest on the edge of an algae-coated canal near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy Space Center, a moss-covered alligator rests while keeping a wary eye open for trespassers. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with the Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and usually lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0266

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On top of what may be a nest on the edge...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On top of what may be a nest on the edge of an algae-coated canal near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy Space Center, a moss-covered alligator rests while keeping a wary eye open for trespa... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On top of what may be a nest on the edge of an algae-coated canal near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy Space Center, a moss-covered alligator rests while keeping a wary eye open for trespassers. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with the Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and usually lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC00pp0266

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On top of what may be a nest on the edge...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On top of what may be a nest on the edge of an algae-coated canal near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy Space Center, a moss-covered alligator rests while keeping a wary eye open for trespa... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the bank of a levee near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy Space Center, an alligator suns itself with a wary eye out for trespassers. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with the Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0264

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the bank of a levee near Schwartz Rd....

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On the bank of a levee near Schwartz Rd. at Kennedy Space Center, an alligator suns itself with a wary eye out for trespassers. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, pond... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An algae-covered alligator keeps a wary eye open as it rests in one of the ponds at Kennedy Space Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC00pp0305

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An algae-covered alligator keeps a wary ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An algae-covered alligator keeps a wary eye open as it rests in one of the ponds at Kennedy Space Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An algae-covered alligator keeps a wary eye open as it rests in one of the ponds at Kennedy Space Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0305

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An algae-covered alligator keeps a wary ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An algae-covered alligator keeps a wary eye open as it rests in one of the ponds at Kennedy Space Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens... More

In the water near Kennedy Space Center, a mother alligator gathers her six offspring. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0313

In the water near Kennedy Space Center, a mother alligator gathers her...

In the water near Kennedy Space Center, a mother alligator gathers her six offspring. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spe... More

In the water near Kennedy Space Center, a mother alligator gathers her six offspring. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC00pp0313

In the water near Kennedy Space Center, a mother alligator gathers her...

In the water near Kennedy Space Center, a mother alligator gathers her six offspring. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spe... More

American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, as well as a variety of insects KSC-00pp0312

American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in ...

American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Center shares a boundary with the Merr... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. --  In one of the many waterholes on KSC, a large alligator lies covered with green algae as he basks in the sun. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways throughout the Center and surrounding areas. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens KSC-02pd0358

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In one of the many waterholes on KSC, a...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In one of the many waterholes on KSC, a large alligator lies covered with green algae as he basks in the sun. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways t... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A large alligator claims this stretch of water at Kennedy Space Center.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which shares a boundary with the Center. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles.  The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, plus a variety of insects. KSC-03pd0777

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A large alligator claims this stretch of ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A large alligator claims this stretch of water at Kennedy Space Center. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the Merritt I... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. --  This alligator strolls the bank alongside the Tow Road on Kennedy Space Center.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles.  The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, plus a variety of insects. KSC-03pd0954

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This alligator strolls the bank alongsi...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- This alligator strolls the bank alongside the Tow Road on Kennedy Space Center. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  A very long alligator strolls the bank alongside the Tow Road on Kennedy Space Center.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles.  The marshes and open water of the refuge provide wintering areas for 23 species of migratory waterfowl, as well as a year-round home for great blue herons, great egrets, wood storks, cormorants, brown pelicans and other species of marsh and shore birds, plus a variety of insects. KSC-03pd0953

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A very long alligator strolls the bank a...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A very long alligator strolls the bank alongside the Tow Road on Kennedy Space Center. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center a... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An alligator is spotted sunning on the muddy bank of a canal in KSC.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An alligator is spotted sunning on the m...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An alligator is spotted sunning on the muddy bank of a canal in KSC. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An alligator is spotted sunning on the muddy bank of a canal in KSC.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles.

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An alligator is spotted sunning on the m...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- An alligator is spotted sunning on the muddy bank of a canal in KSC. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds, and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An alligator slides off a bank into the water on the west side of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. KSC-04pd0200

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An alligator slides off a bank into the w...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An alligator slides off a bank into the water on the west side of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways throughout the Ce... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A moss-covered alligator stretches out on the water’s edge at a bank on the west side of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. KSC-04pd0203

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A moss-covered alligator stretches out on...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - A moss-covered alligator stretches out on the water’s edge at a bank on the west side of NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and wate... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   An alligator spotted near the Launch Pad 39 area at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center raises its head above the water.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. KSC-05pd2341

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An alligator spotted near the Launch Pa...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An alligator spotted near the Launch Pad 39 area at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center raises its head above the water. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterwa... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   In a pond near the Launch Pad 39 area at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, an alligator hides in the shadows under overhanging branches.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. KSC-05pd2340

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In a pond near the Launch Pad 39 area a...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In a pond near the Launch Pad 39 area at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, an alligator hides in the shadows under overhanging branches. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -   An alligator near the Launch Pad 39 area at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center appears not very happy being spotted in the water.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles. KSC-05pd2342

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An alligator near the Launch Pad 39 are...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - An alligator near the Launch Pad 39 area at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center appears not very happy being spotted in the water. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds a... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  At NASA Kennedy Space Center, alligators sun themselves on the bank of a pond.  American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens.  A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding the Center.  The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0235

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, alligators...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, alligators sun themselves on the bank of a pond. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -  At NASA Kennedy Space Center, an alligator suns itself on the bank of a pond.  American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens.  A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding the Center.  The Center shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, which is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0234

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, an alligat...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - At NASA Kennedy Space Center, an alligator suns itself on the bank of a pond. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. T... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA.  - In a canal on Kennedy Space Center, the adult alligator moves into the midst of the young alligators near their nest.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles.   Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0478

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In a canal on Kennedy Space Center, the ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In a canal on Kennedy Space Center, the adult alligator moves into the midst of the young alligators near their nest. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and wat... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA.  - In a canal on Kennedy Space Center, an alligator stays close to its young, at right.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles.  Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0476

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In a canal on Kennedy Space Center, an a...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In a canal on Kennedy Space Center, an alligator stays close to its young, at right. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways throughout the Center and ... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA.  - In a canal on Kennedy Space Center, young alligators stay close to their nest.  Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways throughout the Center and the surrounding Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. The Wildlife Refuge encompasses 92,000 acres that are a habitat for more than 331 species of birds, 31 mammals, 117 fishes, and 65 amphibians and reptiles.   Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann KSC-06pd0477

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In a canal on Kennedy Space Center, youn...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - In a canal on Kennedy Space Center, young alligators stay close to their nest. Nearly 5,000 alligators can be found in canals, ponds and waterways throughout the Center and the su... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. --  On NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the bank of a pond provides the perfect spot for sunbathing alligators.  American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens.  A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC.  KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S.  Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-07pd0157

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the ban...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On NASA's Kennedy Space Center, the bank of a pond provides the perfect spot for sunbathing alligators. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. --  On NASA's Kennedy Space Center, alligators begin climbing out of a pond to sunbathe on the bank. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens.  A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S.  Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-07pd0155

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On NASA's Kennedy Space Center, alligat...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- On NASA's Kennedy Space Center, alligators begin climbing out of a pond to sunbathe on the bank. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they di... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. --    Partly covered with moss (foreleg and mouth), a large alligator suns on the bank of a pond within NASA's Kennedy Space Center.  A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC.  American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S.  Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-07pd0374

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Partly covered with moss (foreleg and...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- Partly covered with moss (foreleg and mouth), a large alligator suns on the bank of a pond within NASA's Kennedy Space Center. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. --   A large alligator suns on the bank of a pond within NASA's Kennedy Space Center.  A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC.  American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S.  Photo credit: NASA/Ken Thornsley KSC-07pd0373

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A large alligator suns on the bank of ...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- A large alligator suns on the bank of a pond within NASA's Kennedy Space Center. A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surroundi... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA.  --  In a pond on Kennedy Space Center, a young alligator tests the water.  American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens.  A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC. KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S.   Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0883

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a pond on Kennedy Space Center, a y...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a pond on Kennedy Space Center, a young alligator tests the water. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The you... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA.  --   From the bank of a pond on Kennedy Space Center, an alligator slides into the water, perhaps eyeing nearby prey.  American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens.  A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC.  KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S.   Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0879

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From the bank of a pond on Kennedy Sp...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- From the bank of a pond on Kennedy Space Center, an alligator slides into the water, perhaps eyeing nearby prey. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their e... More

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA.  --   In a pond on Kennedy Space Center, this alligator achieves partial camouflage from the green algae.  American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens they dig into the banks. The young alligators spend their first several weeks in these dens.  A protected species, alligators can be spotted in the drainage canals and other waters surrounding KSC.  KSC shares a boundary with the Merritt Island Wildlife Nature Refuge. The refuge is a habitat for more than 310 species of birds, 25 mammals, 117 fishes and 65 amphibians and reptiles. In addition, the Refuge supports 19 endangered or threatened wildlife species on Federal or State lists, more than any other single refuge in the U.S.   Photo credit: NASA/Dimitri Gerondidakis KSC-07pd0882

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a pond on Kennedy Space Center, th...

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- In a pond on Kennedy Space Center, this alligator achieves partial camouflage from the green algae. American alligators feed and rest in the water, and lay their eggs in dens t... More

Wood stork among American alligators, Everglades National Park, 2015.

Wood stork among American alligators, Everglades National Park, 2015.

This wood stork (Mycteria americana) goes about its own business with American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) lounging nearby.

American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) basking on the river's edge, Big Cypress National Preserve, 2014.

American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) basking on the river'...

Historically, hunting caused the American alligator's population to decline so much that they were classified as 'endangered' by the Endangered Species Act of 1973. Conservation efforts have allowed their numbe... More

A group of alligators sitting on top of a body of water. American alligators alligator reptile, animals.

A group of alligators sitting on top of a body of water. American alli...

A group of alligators in a pond / A group of alligators sitting on top of a body of water / Animals public domain photography.

National parks: Alligator - public domain image - Cumberland Island National Seashore

National parks: Alligator - public domain image - Cumberland Island Na...

Cumberland Island National Seashore encompasses a variety of forest, marsh, and coastal landscapes providing a home for numerous species including American Alligators.

A group of alligators that are laying on the ground. American alligators alligators danger.

A group of alligators that are laying on the ground. American alligato...

Stock photography: A group of alligators resting on the ground / A group of alligators that are laying on the ground.