Experts say Alligator Attacks Rare in Alabama

WVAS | By Melanie Hogan

Published June 16, 2016 at 5:57 PM EDT

A tragic accident with a toddler at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa has left many parents concerned about alligators. The cold-blood animals are a common sight in Florida ponds, lakes, lagoons and canals. Here in Alabama, wildlife experts say an alligator attack is extremely unlikely. Wildlife Biologist for the Alabama Department of Conservation, Chris Nix says people should always take precautions because the animals do not discriminate against their prey. Nix has worked with the department for over 10 years and he says bees kill more people than alligators in Alabama. Registration for gator hunting opened last Friday, and the season kicks off on Aug. 11.

Melanie Hogan

Melanie began her career as a work study student, working in the areas of news reporting, anchoring and news-gathering. After graduating from Alabama State University, she worked as a production assistant at the local NBC affiliate, WSFA-TV. As a News Director at WVAS-FM, Melanie leads her team to produce award- winning newscasts and talk shows. Her professional achievements includes News Reporter of the Year for a number of years and awards for talk show producer, by the Alabama Broadcasters Association and the Associated Press. She is an active member of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. Her goals are to expand the reach of WVAS FM into more homes locally, regionally and nationally.

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