"We see that same stupid stuff in Florida all the time. Because of shows like 'Gator Boys" People think you can just jump on the back of a gator. They are a helluva lot faster than you think they are.
When I see a gator, I give it a wide berth."
Absolutely the best thing to do.In nature, gators are shy animals and will move away from you.
The problem occurs when stupid people feed them,and they start associating food with man in their walnut sized brain. That will sign their death warrant as that particular gator must be killed.
Just like assuming every gun is loaded, the safest way is to assume that every gator has been fed by humans and has no fear.
