​Alligators

Alligators are part of the Crocodillian group of Reptiles and a member of the Alligatoridae family.  In South Carolina we see American Alligators however there are another type of alligator commonly known as the Chinese Alligator.  Alligators first appeared 37 million years ago.

The name alligator is most likely from the Spanish term el lagarto, which translates to "the lizard".  This is what early Spanish Explorers called the alligators they discovered in Florida.  

An average adult American alligator can grow to be 13-14 feet long and 700-900 pounds.  Adult alligators are black or dark olive brown with white undersides.  A young alligator will have yellowmarkings that fade with age.

Alligators live in The US and China only.  American alligators are found in the southeast US, Louisiana, parts of Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas.  However most live in Florida and Louisiana.  American alligators live in fresh water and dig holes in wetlands that increase plan diversity and provide habitat for other animals during froughts.  They are vital to maintaining ecological diversity in our wetland environments.  They also feed on muskrats and coypu, which destroy wetlands, making alligators an important preditor.

Alligators feed on fish, insects, snails, crestaceans and worms when they are young.  As they age, their foods changes to larger animals such as larger fish, small mamals, deer, and other reptiles.  Sometimes large alligators will ambush dogs and other domestic animals, especially if they are guarding nests or territory.

It is important to NEVER FEED ALLIGATORS.  As the saying goes, "A FED GATOR IS A DEAD GATOR" 

Yacht Cove's Angel, Charli Bobinchuck

Hurricane Season

Hurricane season has begun and will continue until December 1.  Please remember to stay alert for potential storms as well be prepared for any potential storms.  We urge everyone to evacutate if an evacuation order is put into effect.  Remember if the island is evactuated, you will have no emergency services to assist you if needed.  

A "GO Kit" is great to have ready ahead of time and will help ease the stress of evacuation when you're trying to get your home in order and figure out where to do.  Items like clothing, chargers, medications, toiletrees, and important paperwork can be packed ahead of time.  You will typically only need enough items for a few days .  Pill boxes, zip lock type bags, and back packs are great for packing these items. Don't forget a "GO Bag" for the kids and pets.  Having familiar items will help them stay calm during this time as well.  Remember to take pictures of the inside and outside of your home in case of damage.  It will be easier to remember what you had in that one drawer, if you have a picture to refer to.

If you don't already have an evacuation destination in mind, maybe think about where you would end up if you need to evacuate.  Can you visit a family member or friend in another area?  What about going someplace new and making it into an adventure?  If you have a family member or friend who you could stay with, make those arrangements now.  

We all hope we don't need to leave, but if we do, preparing ahead can make a big difference.