Tree islands are seen in the background. Tree islands form on depressions in limestone bedrock that have filled with peat soils to elevations higher than surrounding marshes. These islands provide habitat for many animals including birds, mammals and alligators. We observed many alligators by the ponded slough waters near the Anhinga Trail. Here an alligator lies on a small patch of elevated land and another alligator lies in the grassy waters-edge of Taylor Slough.
Alligators are cold-blooded animals.
Therefore, their body temperatures adjust to surrounding temperatures. When cold, they may become inactive like these alligators and will search for a sunny area or dig down into the mud under water. Alligators are generally more active when the weather is warm. Observed from the safety of the Anhinga Trail boardwalk, this alligator hides partially submerged in the grassy waters-edge of Taylor Slough. Alligators are patient predators.