By Josie February 20th, 2023
It may sound intimidating, but with the right guidance and care, raising a baby alligator can be an incredibly fascinating experience!
They are generally about 6 to 8 inches long and have light green or yellowish skin with black stripes.
Hatchling alligators can move and fend off predators as soon as they emerge from their shells.
Being apex predators, they help maintain a balance in the food chain and ensures that species become manageable.
They also help to keep the water clean by eating carrion and other decaying matter.
Alligator farming is a sustainable industry that does not require killing wild animals
They can be farmed using only a small amount of land, making it an efficient use of resources, while also providing employment.
Alligator meat is a healthy and nutritious alternative to other meats such as beef or pork.
Their skin is one of the most durable natural materials available, making it ideal for various applications (e.g. shoes, belts, and wallets.)
In captivity, baby alligators require an enclosure of at least 20 square feet with a good water source
A baby gator needs enough space to move about and hide for privacy, which will reduce stress levels.
Similarly, humidity should remain between 70% and 80% for the baby alligators to thrive.
Temperature plays an important role in the well-being of baby alligators, 75-93° F is ideal.
It is best to feed them small insects or chopped-up fish filets – anything else can be challenging for them to digest
Experts also recommend earthworms, slugs, and smaller frogs.
It is important to vaccinate baby alligators against common diseases they may encounter and regularly provide them with parasite-prevention treatments.
Establishing trust with them beforehand by placing a hand around them for a few minutes to become comfortable and familiar with you is essential.
It is important to remember that they can be unpredictable and can react with sudden jumps or erratic movements.