Alligator (Big!)
Written by Eric Horan
On assignment in Palmetto Bluff, I was navigating a large, fresh-water lagoon in search of interesting landscapes. Traveling by sea kayak, I came around a tight bend in the river, and found myself face to face with this guy. My 17’ kayak seemed suddenly small and fragile; he was not moved by my intrusion. This provided me a little time, first, to catch my breath, then to take his picture. As I moved toward him, I did so slowly. He finally went down a few feet beyond my bow. After he was down, I paddled through quickly.
Paddling around large reptiles should be done with extreme caution. I’ve seen alligators react so quickly to unannounced intruders, that their disturbance in the water could capsize a kayaker. Even capable of righting my boat, I had no intention of facing him underwater. The bigger they are, the bigger the prize they think they can handle. Close to his size, I’m glad he was not in the mood for my kayak. I prefer thinking he was just waiting to have his portrait taken.
Photo tip: If you’re out photographing in your kayak, it’s best to keep a long lens on the camera while you’re paddling. This way you will be prepared for any wildlife encounter. I keep the camera between my legs in the bottom of the boat in a heavy-duty plastic bag or dry bag. Having the camera set on the correct exposure is imperative to capturing fleeting wildlife moments. You will also want a dry towel and a water bottle handy if you’re paddling in the salt water to clean the salt off your hands before handling your camera. There is always time to pull out the wider lens for inspiring landscapes; they don’t vanish as quickly as birds, mammals or reptiles you might be lucky enough to surprise.
South Carolina law protects the American Alligator. With the exception of a select few lottery winners, these magnificent reptiles cannot be hunted. They thrive in their native wetlands and swamps of the coastal southeast. Be alert to their home turf and give them a wide birth. They can move faster than we can for short distances.
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