Research on temperature dependent sex determination continued for a third season in collaboration with Jeff Lang, limited mercury analysis on meat was completed and DNA investigations were initiated. Thirty five nests were located in aerial surveys on the Santee Coastal Reserve and temperature probes placed in 28 active nests. An additional eight nests were instrumented and monitored on Kiawah Island with assistance from local residents and volunteers. Mercury contamination of alligator meat has long been a concern, especially now that every river in SC has warnings about consumption of fish because of mercury levels. A limited sample of meat from nuisance alligators were tested and several found to be above US FDA recommended levels.
Further testing is recommended.
Status, distribution and trends of alligator populations are monitored annually by aerial nest surveys and night light surveys. Surveys are regularly conducted on nine representative areas twice a year. Manpower restrictions and weather are the main causes of incomplete surveys, but selected spotlight surveys appear to be adequate for monitoring population trends. Overall, the Alligator project has effectively handled nuisance alligator complaints, successfully implemented a wild harvest, continues to produce quality research and has continued to provide information to the public. Summarized from 1996 Annual Report, South Carolina Alligator Program.