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Top 10 States With The Most American Alligator

Alligator
American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) photographed in Chambers Co., Texas, USA. Image via Wilafa, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The American alligator is a remarkable animal that has thrived in the southern United States for millions of years – do you know which states have the most American alligator? If not, here we list the top 10 states where you can find the most American alligators.

10. Oklahoma

American Alligator cooling down
American alligator cooling down in water. Image via Bobyellow, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In Oklahoma, you’ll find a small population of about 100 alligators. They are mostly in the southeastern part of the state, near the Red River. Though few in number, they are an important part of the local wildlife.

9. North Carolina

Crocodile and Alligator image
Juvenile American alligator lying on a juvenile American crocodile. Image via Agsftw, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Evidently North Carolina is home to around 1,000 alligators. These creatures are mostly found in the coastal plains and are an interesting sight for nature enthusiasts exploring the state’s wetlands.

8. Arkansas

Alligator
Large American alligator on grass. Image via cuatrok77, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Arkansas has about 2,000 alligators. They inhabit the swamps and rivers of the southern part of the state. It’s a modest number, but they add to the diverse wildlife of the region.

7. Mississippi

American alligator
Image by Hans Stieglitz. Via Wikimedia – https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0

In Mississippi, you can find around 32,000 alligators. They thrive in the bayous and marshes, making this state a notable place for alligator spotting.

6. Alabama

Alligator
Alligator. Image by H. Zell via Wikimedia – https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0

Alabama is home to about 70,000 alligators. They are mostly in the southern part of the state, especially around the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, which provides a perfect habitat for them.

5. South Carolina

Alligator Sharp teeth strongest bites.
Image via Wikimedia (Public Domain)

South Carolina has around 100,000 alligators. These reptiles are found in the coastal regions, enjoying the warm climate and abundant water sources.

4. Georgia

American Alligator resting in water
American alligator in water. Image via Steve Hillebrand, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Georgia boasts a population of 200,000 alligators. They are primarily located in the swamps and rivers of the southern part of the state, including the famous Okefenokee Swamp.

3. Texas

alligator
One of the many American alligators spotted in Brazos Bend State Park in Fort Bend County, Texas, United States. Image by Larry D. Moore

In Texas, there are approximately 400,000 alligators. They inhabit the eastern part of the state, especially in the marshes and rivers that stretch from Beaumont to the Louisiana border.

2. Florida

the most powerful biting force
A large American alligator lifts its head out of the water in a Florida swamp. Image via Depositphotos

Generally Florida is well-known for its large alligator population, which numbers around 1.3 million. Moreover these alligators are a common sight in the state’s extensive network of swamps, rivers, and lakes, especially in the Everglades.

1. Louisiana

Image via Wikimedia – https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0

Louisiana tops the list with a staggering 2 million alligators. The state’s vast wetlands, bayous and swamps provide an ideal environment for these animals. Louisiana’s alligator population depicts the rich and thriving ecosystem of the region.

All these population numbers come from World Population Review.

Wrapping Up with the Top 10 States With The Most American Alligator

alligator in water
American alligator cooling down in water Bettina Arrigoni, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The American alligator is a resilient animal that has found a home in the southern parts United States. From the small population in Oklahoma to the vast numbers in Louisiana, these states offer a glimpse into the natural habitats that support these ancient reptiles. Evidently whether you are a wildlife enthusiast or just curious, these states provide a great opportunity to see American alligators in their natural environment.

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