SFRC-83/00 Evaluation of the Management of Problem Alligators in Everglades National Park
Jacobsen T and Kuslan J. 1983. SFRC-83/00 Evaluation of the Management of Problem Alligators in Everglades National Park. SFRC - 83/0. South Florida Natural Resources Center. Homestead, Florida
The National Park Service strives to perpetuate the native animal life of the parks for their essential role in natural ecosystems (National Park Service 1978). In aquatic habitats, the ecological importance of crocodilians is being given increasing recognition by both scientists and wildlife managers (January 10, 1977 - 42 FR 2075). This is especially relevant in the Everglades, where the activities of the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) are critical to the natural functioning of the ecosystem, serving to maintain species richness and increase habitat diversity (Craighead 1968, Kushlan 1974). In recognition of their important ecological role and their popularity with the visiting public, alligators have become symbols of the wilderness of Everglades National Park. The history of the alligator within the Everglades began with its exploitation, especially for the commercial value of its hides. Keeping a check on illegal hunting once consumed many personnel-hours of effort within Everglades National Park, and the earliest emphasis on alligator management had always been properly placed on the protection of alligators from humans.. As the park became established, however, and was opened to people other than local hunters, a new range of potential problems for management developed. The realization that alligators might become nuisances arose early in the history of the park.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- Jacobsen, Terri; Kuslan, James
- Date of Issue
- 1983-10
- Publisher
- South Florida Natural Resources Center
- Units
- EVER
- Keywords
- alligator, everglades, SFNRCTRS
- Subjects
- Ecological Framework: Biological Integrity | Focal Species or Communities | Amphibians and Reptiles