Alligators are not commonly associated with the Northeastern state of Delaware. However, you may be surprised to learn that there have been sporadic sightings and even a few documented cases of alligators popping up in The First State over the years.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: While alligators are not native to Delaware and no breeding populations are present, a small number of individual alligators have been spotted and captured in the state periodically.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the history of alligator sightings in Delaware, examine what factors allow them to (briefly) inhabit the state, and discuss whether climate change could cause an increase going forward.
Documented Alligator Sightings in Delaware
Occasional Captures Near Delaware Bay
While alligators are not native to Delaware, there have been periodic confirmed sightings and captures over the past few decades, predominantly in the marshes and tributaries near the Delaware Bay. According to the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) report, the first documented alligator capture occurred in 1954.
Since then, DNREC has record of at least 14 separate incidences of alligators being spotted or trapped in the First State.
Most experts believe these exotic reptiles were likely released pets that managed to survive short-term in Delaware’s warmer coastal wetlands. The largest captured alligator was a 5-foot male discovered in August 2000 near the Murderkill River.
Wildlife officials speculate it may have traveled downriver from nearby Kent County. While alligators can tolerate Delaware’s seasonal climate, they rarely survive winter due to the state’s frequent Arctic cold fronts.
DNREC urges citizens to report alligator sightings but not approach or attempt capture themselves.
Spottings in Inland Ponds and Waterways
In addition to periodic saltwater marsh captures, there have also been nearly a dozen spottings of alligators in Delaware’s inland freshwater ponds, lakes, and streams over the past 20 years. While one 3-foot gator was captured in central Kent County’s Silver Lake in 2012, most sightings have occurred near New Castle County’s heavily populated Pike Creek drainage basin.
Wildlife experts suspect these non-native reptiles were likely released by reptile enthusiasts who could no longer care for their rapidly growing pets. Alligators over 4 feet long can be extremely dangerous and should not be approached.
If you spot what you believe is an alligator, immediately contact the DNREC Wildlife Section or local animal control. Attempting capture yourself risks potential harm to both people and wildlife.
How Do Alligators End Up in Delaware?
Alligators are not native to the state of Delaware, yet they have been spotted in the First State on occasion. There are two primary ways these enormous reptiles end up so far north of their typical habitats.
Hurricanes Can Displace Alligators
One way alligators find their way to Delaware is by being displaced by major hurricanes and storms. Alligators are indigenous to the southeastern United States, with large populations in states like Florida, Louisiana, and Texas.
When powerful hurricanes strike these areas, the storm surges can sweep alligators far away from their regular territories. Flood waters have been known to carry the gators hundreds of miles inland and northward.
There have been multiple documented cases of alligators turning up in unusual locations after major weather events. For example, an 8-foot alligator was found wandering around a Houston neighborhood in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey in 2017.
It likely got swept away from its wetland home by the catastrophic flooding in the region. Similarly, if a hurricane skirted up the East Coast, it could potentially transport some gators up to Delaware.
According to wildlife experts, most displaced alligators don’t survive very long once washed out of their typical climate and habitat. But some do seem to endure, at least for a little while. After Hurricane Irene hit the East Coast in 2011, there were several sightings of alligators in parts of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland.
It is likely the storm swept them northward from their indigenous grounds. So a particularly powerful storm could feasibly deposit an alligator or two up in Delaware as well.
Humans Sometimes Illegally Keep as Exotic Pets
Another reason alligators are occasionally spotted in Delaware is because people illegally acquire them as exotic pets. Alligators are not indigenous to Delaware, so it is against the law to capture and keep them as pets in the state.
However, there is a black market for procuring gator eggs and hatchlings from Southern states and then selling them in non-native areas. People interested in unique pets will sometimes buy them illegally and try to raise them discreetly.
This is a dangerous practice, as alligators can grow over 10 feet long and have powerful jaws capable of biting through bone. They require specialized care and controlled environments. Yet some exotic pet owners underestimate the challenge of keeping them.
When the alligators become too large and aggressive to handle, irresponsible owners may release them into local wilderness areas. This is how some end up lurking in lakes and ponds miles from the creatures’ natural habitat.
For example, in 2021 a 6-foot alligator was found living in a small pond in a park near Wilmington, Delaware. Animal control officers had to capture it after several startled park visitors reported spotting it. The gator was likely an illegal pet that had been dumped in the pond by its owner.
Though getting an alligator seems like a novel idea for some exotic pet enthusiasts, it often ends badly for both the animal and local community.
Alligator sightings draw excitement in Delaware, as they are so unusual. But they serve as reminders that humans can have unforeseen impacts on the natural world, whether through reckless pet ownership or catastrophic climate events.
Wildlife officials must remain vigilant for displaced and problematic critters that turn up where they don’t belong due to human influences.
Are Conditions in Delaware Suitable for Alligators?
Climate Too Cold in Winter for Permanent Settlement
Despite its southern location, Delaware’s climate is likely too cold in the winter months to allow alligators to establish permanent settlements. According to climate data, average temperatures in the state fall below freezing from December through February, with average lows in the 20s Fahrenheit (not exactly ideal conditions for cold-blooded reptiles!).
While alligators can withstand brief cold snaps by burrowing into mud, spending entire winter seasons with sub-freezing temps would make survival a challenge.
For comparison, more established alligator habitats in states like Florida and Louisiana rarely see winter averages dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. So while the odd stray gator may wander into Delaware during warm spells, it likely couldn’t withstand the state’s cold winters for multiple seasons in a row (brrr!).
The climate is just a bit too chilly up north for the long-term comfort of American alligators.
But Warmer Temperatures Could Allow Seasonal Habitation
However, some recent sightings suggest that warmer weather in spring and summer could allow alligators to inhabit Delaware on a seasonal basis. As average temperatures climb from March to August, ranging from the 50s into the 80s Fahrenheit, conditions fall within the comfort zone for alligators.
During these warmer months, it’s possible they could thrive in Delaware’s marshes and waterways while hunting and basking in the sun.
Additionally, some climate change models predict generally rising temperatures over time in the state. If heat waves become more common or seasons lengthen, the window for potential alligator habitation may expand.
Still, surviving the winter would likely remain an insurmountable challenge for permanent settlement. So while alligators may vacation in Delaware during the summer, they probably couldn’t call it home year-round!
Will Climate Change Lead to More Alligators in Delaware?
As climate change causes temperatures to rise across the United States, there has been some speculation that habitats suitable for American alligators may shift northward. Could we see alligators taking up residence in the First State in the coming decades?
While anything is possible, most wildlife experts agree it is highly unlikely that significant populations of alligators will establish themselves in Delaware anytime soon. American alligators prefer warm, wet climates in coastal wetlands and inland waterways.
They are native to the southeastern United States, with established populations currently ranging from North Carolina southward into Texas and Florida. Delaware’s climate is still too cold for them to thrive.
Climate Comparison Between Delaware and Alligator Habitats
To understand why alligators are unlikely to migrate to Delaware, it helps to compare some key climatic factors between Delaware and places where alligators currently live:
- Average annual temperature:
- Delaware averages 52°F
- Northernmost current alligator habitats average 59°F
- Average winter low temperature:
- Delaware averages 25°F in January
- Northern habitats average above freezing at 34°F
- Length of warm season:
- Delaware has around 5 months with average temperatures above 60°F
- Established habitats have 8+ months averaging over 60°F
As the above comparisons show, winters are still much harsher in Delaware than in places where alligators currently live. While rising average temperatures may enable the occasional wayward gator to survive short-term, sustained populations are very unlikely without a longer warm season and milder winters.
Expert Opinions Suggest Sightings Will Remain Rare
Wildlife experts emphasize that sporadic sightings of lone alligators wandering outside of their native range have always occurred and likely always will as temperatures fluctuate. But they caution against hype or fear about large numbers establishing themselves so far north anytime soon.
Dr. Ruth Boettcher, herpetologist at the University of Florida, told National Geographic: “Climate change notwithstanding, the climate in Delaware is still far from ideal for the American alligator. “ She concludes occasional visitors may become a bit more frequent, but permanent populations far less likely within this century at least.
How to Report an Alligator Sighting in Delaware
Seeing an alligator in the First State may seem bizarre, but it does happen on occasion. If you spot one of these prehistoric-looking reptiles, follow this guide on how to properly report it to the authorities in Delaware.
Remain Calm and Keep Your Distance
First things first – do not approach the alligator! These powerful animals can move incredibly fast on land over short distances and their bite contains a huge amount of bacteria. Back away slowly and try to put as much space between you and the gator as possible.
It’s also important to remain calm. Panicking or making sudden movements could provoke the alligator. Move smoothly and quietly away from the area while keeping an eye on the reptile.
Gather Details About the Sighting
As you create distance between yourself and the alligator, be sure to take note of key details that will aid authorities:
- The alligator’s approximate size
- Its specific location and surrounding habitat
- Any identifying features (scars, missing limbs, etc.)
- The time and date you saw it
Having an accurate description and location will help wildlife officials respond appropriately.
Contact the Proper Authorities
Once you are safely away from the area, you’ll want to contact the correct wildlife management authorities. In Delaware, you can report alligator sightings to either:
- Delaware Fish and Wildlife Natural Resources Police: (800) 523-3336
- Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC): (302) 739-9902
These agencies have staff trained specifically in handling nuisance alligators. Provide them with all the details you documented about the sighting.
You should also notify local law enforcement, especially if the gator was spotted in an area with lots of human activity like a park or backyard. Police can help secure the scene while wildlife authorities are in route.
Avoid Spreading Panic on Social Media
It can be tempting to post a photo or video of the wandered alligator on social media. However, this could create unnecessary public panic and chaos. Allow wildlife professionals to handle informing the local community appropriately.
In some cases, they may even request that sighting details not be publicly shared at all so they can track the animal without spooking it further.
By reporting your alligator encounter properly and avoiding hysteria online, you allow Delaware’s trained wildlife teams to address the situation in the most safe and effective manner possible.
Conclusion
While verified alligator sightings in Delaware remain rare and seasonal, it’s possible that rising average temperatures due to climate change could allow the large reptiles to inhabit the state more regularly going forward.
If you do spot what appears to be an alligator in a Delaware waterway, be sure to contact the state Department of Natural Resources for guidance.
