Problems with alligators begin when people start treating them like pets. When people feed alligators, alligators see people as a source of food. They can move incredibly fast when they want to. An alligator can charge and chase a person for food if there is the expectation that a person will provide food for them. No pets are allowed on the refuge because dogs are particularly attractive to alligators.
Alligators look docile and quiet when they are sunning.
Don't be fooled. They can be fierce and can run pretty fast. Just don't try to walk down to get near the alligator. Volunteers do give tours of the refuge, but a call is needed two weeks in advance. The refuge office can be reached at 652-4415.