How to Survive an Alligator Death Roll
The alligator death roll is one of the most feared attack strategies of this reptilian predator. If you find yourself in the water with an alligator and it begins to roll toward you it is imperative that you know what to do to survive.
There are three key things you need to do if you find yourself in this situation:
1. Remain calm
If you panic you will only increase your chances of being injured or killed. It is important to remain calm and think clearly so that you can take the necessary steps to protect yourself.
2. Try to stay afloat
The alligator will be trying to submerge you so that you drown. It is important to try to stay afloat and keep your head above water. Do not waste energy by struggling against the alligator instead focus on staying afloat.
3. Wait for the alligator to tire
The alligator will eventually tire from rolling and will stop. When this happens you need to be prepared to take advantage of the situation. Try to grab the alligator’s snout and hold it shut so that it cannot bite you. You can then try to escape or wait for help to arrive.
If you find yourself in the water with an alligator remember these three key things to help you survive an alligator death roll.
How can you survive an alligator death roll?
You can try to pry the alligator’s mouth open or push its head under water to drowning it.
What is an alligator death roll?
It is when an alligator flips over its prey and rapidly spins in the water to rip it apart.
What is the alligator’s natural habitat?
The alligator’s natural habitat is freshwater wetlands such as marshes and swamps.
What do alligators eat?
Alligators are carnivores and eat fish reptiles mammals and birds.
How big do alligators get?
Male alligators can grow up to 15 feet (4.
6 m) long and females can grow up to 10 feet (3.
0 m) long.
How long do alligators live?
Alligators can live up to 50 years in the wild.
What is the alligator’s reproductive cycle?
The alligator’s reproductive cycle is biennial meaning that they mate every two years.
How many eggs does a female alligator lay?
A female alligator can lay up to 50 eggs at a time.
When do alligators hatch?
Alligators hatch in late summer or early fall.
How big are alligator hatchlings?
Alligator hatchlings are about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) long.
How long does it take for alligators to reach maturity?
It takes alligators about 8-12 years to reach maturity.
What predators do alligators have?
Alligators have few predators but their young are sometimes eaten by wading birds such as herons and egrets.
Do alligators have any parasites?
Yes alligators can have parasites such as leeches and ticks.
How do alligators thermoregulate?
Alligators thermoregulate by basking in the sun or by submerging themselves in water.
What is the alligator’s status on the IUCN Red List?
The alligator is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
