Preserving maximum plant and wildlife diversity is an active and adaptive process, requiring the maintenance of a wide variety of habitats. Management plans must continually be revisited to ensure that our goals are met.

Wildlife: Alligators

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The Spring Island Trust believes the alligator is a critical part of the Spring Island fauna and can coexist with people if certain rules are followed. Alligators can be dangerous, however, and nuisance gators will be removed promptly following the guidelines and permitting procedures established by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.

It is normal for gators to bask on the golf course. This does not mean they are a nuisance. You can see them so there is no danger. If a ball lands near a gator, take a mulligan!

gator-golf

Suspected nuisance gators should be reported immediately to the Spring Island Trust (987-7008). If possible, keep the alligator in sight until a Trust staff member arrives.

pdf Spring Island Alligator Policy
pdf Alligator Biology

 

Alligator Rules:

  • Do not feed alligators.
  • Do not harass (e.g., throw things at, chase) alligators.
  • Do not allow unattended children or pets to be near the edges of ponds where large gators are.
  • Do not approach alligators.
  • Do not harm alligators.
  • Do not throw crab bait in pond after crabbing.
  • Do not throw fish on bank after catching.
  • Do not clean fish in areas where gators may interact with people.
  • Do not swim in Spring Island ponds or allow pets to swim in ponds.
  • Be cautious if you’re in a secluded pond area; alligators nest there and females are very protective of their young.
  • Do not attempt to catch alligators.