It’s the little ‘chirping’ sounds that give them away every time.
Usually you can’t spot the very young ones without their noise, and movement. This group was very young, probably no more than a few weeks old.
I counted five, but there could have been twice as many in the weeds. They were only about 6 – 7 inches long.
Alligator is the only reptile that will stay with young after they hatch. I’m sure the female was near though I never did see her.
For now they are the prey not predator. They need protection for at least a year, but stay near ‘mom’ for around three years.
Aw! Is three years old when they are considered full grown or is that just when they can care for themselves?
I think that would be like a young adult. They don’t breed yet, but are about 3 foot long then. Colors change also. Young ones have a multi color hide. Older and it becomes more flat brown/gray.
My daughter loves the chirp! On every Okefenokee trip each year we watch closely for babies and paddle quietly to listen for that sound. William
Yep, a give away for sure 👍👍