The Ultimate Swamp Snag

 As Jenna and I are driving into the Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge (FWNC&R) headquarters, Dr. Williams flags us down. I immediately thought we were going to get in trouble because we were running a few minutes late. Instead, Dr. Williams exclaims "We're going gator hunting!" I did not know what this would entail until 3 hours later. We hopped in the FWNC&R trucks and headed to a small lake on the property. I should probably describe the purpose of this so called "gator hunting" before I dive into the details, and don't worry---we aren't actually harming the alligators. The process entails humanely capturing an alligator in efforts to tag the creature for population tracking. In addition to the multiple tagging methods, the alligator is weighed and measured in every dimension. If the alligator is already tagged, it is weighed and measured which allows the staff to analyze the alligator's growth from the previous capture. This procedure is known as alligator mark-capture studies. Redundancy in capturing each alligator is important for data analysis and species protection. 

Sara's Guide to Capturing an Alligator:

Obtain 2 fishing poles with weighted treble hooks attached to a thick line. Somehow hook the alligator by its limbs or underside. Use the other fishing pole to hook another area of the alligator. Reel in. Jump on alligator. Tape the mouth shut. Make sure you don't get slapped by the tail. Measure & weigh. Remove mouth tape. Release.

Now that may sound simple, but this process took over 3 hours for an almost 11 foot alligator. 

This experience was something I will remember forever. I am grateful that this class has allowed me to branch out and explore the greater Fort Worth area!


Measuring the Alligator  

Close up of The Alligator's Skin

Alligator Pulled from Water

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