A Traveler and his Cat exploring America.





Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Don't Eat Me


Everglades, Florida


While stalking this alligator near camp

I almost stepped on this guy.  
Usually brightly colored insects mean they are toxic thus a warning not to be eaten.  
He surely is a pretty fellow.

Nearby this flower.

Okay, like I needed to be told.

Then there was another alligator with these notches on the tail.  I was wondering if they are intentional markings done by the Wildlife Service in order to identify separate individuals.

At any rate, I guess I got too close and he lept into the water with the suddenness of a broken shoe lace.  Yep, the thundering splash scared me.  Notice the bubbles where he landed in the water.  
I guess I was guilty of harassing the alligators.



10 comments:

s.c said...

Oeps.

biebkriebels said...

It is amazing you had such a close look at them. I still think they are a bit scary they can move so unexpected quickly. But you survived without harm fortunately.

EG CameraGirl said...

Kinda scary, John!

TexWisGirl said...

just darn spooky critters! and their speed would give me a TON of respect for them!

GreenComotion said...

Wonder if the notch was caused by a propeller of a boat engine.

Nice flower and scenery.

Peace :)

MarkD60 said...

Boy, that'd piss me off to get bit by an alligator. Ain't nobody got time for that!

Karen said...

They do move quickly when they get it in their mind to jump. Great shots, John, as usual.

theconstantwalker said...

A wonderful post John... and somewhere I have actually visited in the States.

John W. Wall said...

That is one awesome bug.

Randy said...

I hope you weren't too close.