Alligator Management of the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge

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Abstract
In order to secure a better understanding of the alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) and its relation to other wildlife in this s.-w. Louisiana marsh a regulated hunt was undertaken in 1946. Primary emphasis was placed on food habits analyses, but breeding data were also obtained to provide basic information for future management. 1075 alligators were killed on 7 hunting units. Early in the season they were taken from the canals and bayous; later the bulk of the kill was made in the marsh where the alligators had retreated apparently because of high open-water temps. Analysis of 318 stomachs revealed a carnivorous diet and indicated that all types of edible animal life were consumed in proportion to their abundance and availability. Crustacea, particularly crayfish (Cambarus), were taken in greatest quantity but, in common with other invertebrates, were of most importance to small alligators. Individuals longer than 5 ft. took a greater percentage of vertebrate foods, especially muskrats. The amt. of predation on desirable wildlife did not appear to be excessive and was compensated for by the fact that the alligator is a valuable source of leather. Alligators also perform a beneficial function by maintaining open ponds which otherwise would be lost through plant invasion. Data concerning reproduction were secured by post-mortem examination. Females do not become mature until about 6 ft. in length. The number of eggs per individual varied from 1-38 with an avg. of 25.The reproductive cycle was divided into 4 periods: (1) Apr.-May: maturation of eggs in ovaries; (2) mid-May - mid-June: eruption of eggs and fertilization; (3) mid-June - mid-July: nest building and egg laying; (4) mid-Aug. - mid-Sept.: hatching of young. The length of incubation, based on the observation of one nest, was 2 mos. Since the alligator is dormant in the winter, hunting occurs in the warmer mos. when the animal is sexually active. Such conflict cannot be entirely prevented, but hunting can be either restricted or prohibited during the time of breeding and nesting. Hunting controls are recommended for the period of mid-June until mid-Sept.

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