Are There Alligators in Maine?

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Maine is known for many things, including its beautiful coastline and waterways.

And like most oceans, Maine waters contain some dangers.

The question is whether or not alligators are included in these dangers and if they’re something you should expect to be lurking when you dip in your toes.

This guide will give you the answer and many additional facts to keep you safe swimming in Maine.

So… Are There Alligators in Maine?

Though anything can happen, you likely won’t see any alligators in Maine – at least none that traveled there on their own.

Alligators thrive in warmer climates, which is why you normally find them only in southern states.

Maine temperatures can get as low as 15 degrees in the wintertime.

Summer temperatures usually linger between 60 and 70 degrees, which is still much cooler than in southern states that can reach temperatures in the 90s and up.

So, in short, alligators will naturally stay in the lower part of the country.

Sadly, this doesn’t mean that people won’t try to bring alligators into Maine from time to time.

Due to that fact, it’s always wise to keep your eyes open and be safe.

However, generally speaking, alligators do not make their home in states like Maine.

Alligator Species in Maine

As you’re not likely to find alligators in Maine, there are no specific species to mention.

Is It Safe to Swim in Maine?

While alligators do not typically pose a threat when you’re swimming in Maine, there are other things to worry about and prepare for.

Below are some common threats and tips to help avoid them.

Water Temperature

One major one is actually the temperature of the water.

Many tourists assume that since it’s warmed up outside, the water is warm enough to swim in.

This is not always the case, leaving many people to deal with hypothermia.

Remember, temperatures stay mild to low in Maine, so it can take the water longer to warm up than it does in places like Florida.

Before diving in, check the water. If it feels too cold, stay out.

If you get in and you find yourself shivering, get out immediately.

Shivering means your body is losing its heat, and you need to warm up immediately.

Consider wearing a wet suit to help keep your body heat inside.

Unclean Water

Contamination also seems to be an issue in Maine, but the government keeps a close eye on this and posts warnings.

Additionally, they’ll close down beaches that they consider unsafe.

Be sure that you do not swallow any ocean water and follow any warnings provided.

Sharks

Shark attacks are not a common occurrence, but they do happen.

Maine keeps an eye out for the threat and posts a warning when any sharks are spotted.

It’s important that you pay attention to those warnings, but there are other precautions to put in place.

First, don’t swim alone.

Swimming in a group is safer.

Stay out of the water you can’t see through, as well as any areas with a lot of fish – these are excellent lunch spots for sharks.

Don’t splash around too much because you can draw attention to yourself.

Also, do not swim in the early mornings or evenings – wait until the sun is gracing the water with its presence.

Unsafe Water Conditions

Riptides, currents, rapids, and powerful waves are a pretty constant threat.

It takes little to get caught in these dangers, which can lead to drowning very quickly.

It’s essential that you be prepared to respond should you face one of them.

Always check local weather reports before going out into the water.

This will give you a good idea of whether the conditions are safe for swimming.

Avoid using flotation devices since they can easily pull you out on a tide or wave.

Don’t swim if you’ve been drinking, as alcohol can inhibit your ability to survive these dangers.

When the waters warm up enough, you’ll find many of the most popular swimming spots manned by lifeguards.

Consider sticking with these areas, so you’ll have that extra protection for yourself and your family.

Also, consider taking swimming courses in Maine – even if you know how to swim.

By taking courses in the state, you’ll be taught helpful ways to stay safe in local water.

Lastly, consider wearing a life jacket at all times to help you increase your chances of safety.

At a minimum, keep your kids in a life jacket and have them take swimming and water safety courses.

Interesting Alligator Facts in Maine

Alligators aren’t exactly welcome in Maine, and authorities respond appropriately and swiftly if there is a potential threat.

Back in 2017, five baby alligators were discovered taking a taxi ride in Maine.

They weren’t alone, of course.

Instead, a student was carrying them in a container – the cabbie none the wiser for a while.

Unfortunately, those gators made a break for it and went a little wild in the taxi.

The cab driver realized what was going on when his shirt was bitten.

Local authorities took the creatures to a local refuge and charged the student for importing wildlife.

This story is a testament to how Maine responds to such a risk.

Unfortunately, it’s impossible to stop every person who gets the grand idea to bring in non-native wildlife.

However, you can rest assured that when the state learns of it, the proper action is taken to rectify the situation.

Alligators vs Crocodiles

You’ve probably seen – or at least heard of – the Lake Placid movie series.

This is a series in which the Giant Saltwater Crocodile is preying on people in Black Lake, Maine.

It made for a great horror series that left many people terrified that it might be true.

Well, the good news is that you’re about as likely to see a crocodile in Maine as you are an alligator – which is very unlikely.

Regardless of where you might be swimming, though, knowing how to spot the differences between an alligator and a crocodile is important.

One of the biggest differences is actually their color.

You’ll notice that alligators are darker – usually of a gray or black hue.

Crocodiles, on the other hand, are lighter – often green or light brown.

Their snouts are also different: crocodiles have a snout that resembles a “V,” while alligators’ snout looks more like a “U.”

You’ll often find alligators in the southern part of the United States.

Crocodiles are typically found in Australia, Central America, India, Africa, and the Pacific Ocean.

Also, they do have different levels of aggression.

Crocodiles are often aggressive – no matter what is going on.

Alligators – on the other hand – are known for staying away from humans unless you get too close to them, they feel threatened, you get too close to a momma’s babies, or you are splashing a good deal and they think you’re a fish.

In either case, you don’t want to test either creature’s aggression.

Instead, aim to steer clear so you’re never perceived as any sort of a threat.

3 Safety Tips for Swimming in Alligator-Infested Waters

Whether there has been a rare sighting of an alligator in the New England area or you’re swimming in southern states fraught with alligators, it’s important to take some safety precautions.

The following are three of the most important ones.

1. Avoid Dangerous Areas and Dangerous Times

If you are aware a certain area is dangerous, it’s best to just stay out of them.

Pay close attention to any public warnings telling you which areas to avoid.

Also, if you hear a rumor from anyone about an alligator sighting, it’s best to act as though the threat is real.

You should also stay away from remote areas or those that are heavily vegetated along the shore, as these are good places for alligators to hang out.

Lastly – just like avoiding shark threats – don’t swim too early or in the early evenings.

2. Make Yourself Known

Again, alligators will tend to avoid you if they know you are there.

Be sure you make a lot of noise when you go swimming so that any alligators that might be hanging out close by know you are human – not a fish.

3. Go With the Crowd

If you’re looking for some time alone, it’s smarter to take that time with another activity.

Swimming is best done with others to minimize risk – especially if alligators are a threat.

However, it’s usually wise not to make your swimming companions children or small pets.

Because of their size, they could more easily be confused for prey.

Summary

Alligators are not a common threat for those swimming in Maine. 

Regardless of this fact, though, it’s always a good idea to keep up with news reports and keep your eyes peeled for any type of threat.

Maine Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Maine Safety Review

Safety Index:

86

• OVERALL RISK: LOW
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: LOW
• TERRORISM RISK: LOW
• SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW