Double Take: Was That An Alligator on the Beach?

One of the many perks to the beach and coastal region is our beautiful natural habitats and animals that reside in them. Alligators are indigenous to the Myrtle Beach area, and they typically live in our freshwater marshes and rivers, away from people. But, every so often, it is possible that an alligator might make its way to the ocean.

We recently met with Mike Walker, Interpretive Ranger at Huntington Beach State Park, to discuss the reasons why alligators can make their way into the ocean. First, many alligators that end up in the ocean have been kicked out by a more dominant male alligator in their natural habitat, and they are migrating to another, more friendly environment.

In the extremely rare occasion that you encounter an alligator at the beach or anywhere else, do not approach the alligator, just admire it from a distance. Most alligators don’t want anything to do with humans, however, they can become defensive if provoked (but don’t we all!).

Below is a list of organizations that can help remove an alligator safely and take it back to a freshwater location.

• South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
• Palmetto Wildlife Extractors
• Metro Wildlife & Pest

Huntington Beach State Park, located in Murrells Inlet, is a great place to learn more about nature and wildlife while visiting the Grand Strand. They offer several programs on all types of wildlife throughout the summer including crabs, alligators, turtles and birds that will truly immerse you in the beauty of our coastline. For more information, visit their website. 

Check out our itineraries created for nature lovers like you and plan you next adventure to The Beach!