La Porte Animal Control issues alligator habitat warning

La Porte Animal Control reminds residents that the entire Bayshore region is a habitat for alligators.

Residents should be aware alligators can be found in most watery places, including bayous, ponds and flood control ditches, according to a La Porte Animal Control news release. Humans usually stumble upon them as the animals are lounging on land and warming their bodies.

An important tip to remember is, contrary to popular belief, alligators are swift creatures. They can run up to speeds of 35 mph and defend themselves when threatened. They offer a hiss of warning before attacking, according to the release.

Alligators fear humans and would rather avoid a confrontation, experts say in the release. Consequently, if one is not posing a safety risk, wait for a week or two before calling animal control, as alligators usually move on to different habitats.

Other safety tips reported include keeping pets inside, refraining from feeding alligators and supervising children around water.

Animal Control suggests a visit to the Texas Parks and Wildlife website, www.tpwd.state.tx.us/ for more information on how to safely navigate these encounters.

For more information about alligators in Bayshore, please call the La Porte Animal Control Division at 281-471-3810 or visit www.dfwwildlife.org.