Online videos showcasing frozen alligators in North Carolina and Texas have taken the internet by storm, attracting massive attention. These videos, captured at gator rescue parks, depict a behavior rarely witnessed by the public – a survival instinct displayed by the cold-blooded reptiles. However, experts confirm that the alligators are very much alive and well.
The Incredible Phenomenon of Brumation
George Howard, general manager of The Swamp Park in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, explains that what viewers witness on social media is a reptilian behavior known as brumation. Alligators, like other reptiles, depend on their environment to regulate their body temperature. During brumation, their metabolic rates slow down, resulting in periods of lethargy interspersed with bursts of activity, as stated by the South Carolina Aquarium.
The Swamp Park posted images of alligators with their snouts poking out of frozen water during brumation. This behavior allows them to breathe when the water freezes. It’s their version of hibernation, enabling them to survive the times when they are unable to eat due to the cold.
Howard emphasized that such behavior is rarely seen by the general public. When he first witnessed an alligator brumating in 2018, he was initially in disbelief. He realized the remarkable ability of these creatures to adapt, overcome, and improvise.
Behind the Viral TikTok Videos
One notable TikTok video, posted by Howard’s colleague at The Swamp Park, has amassed an impressive 1.7 million likes. In the video, the employee humorously declares that the alligators are “frozen solid” and compares them to “gatorcicles.” The employee even playfully boops an alligator on the nose, while cautioning viewers not to attempt this themselves.
At The Swamp Park, there are 12 rescue alligators ranging in size from 2 feet to 11 feet. These alligators were once pets and cannot be returned to their natural habitat due to their familiarity with humans, which makes them potentially dangerous.
In Beaumont, Texas, at Gator Country Adventure Park, where there are approximately 550 rescue gators, a TikTok video posted by Eddie Hanhart, the intern coordinator, showcases an alligator brumating. Hanhart explains how the alligator prepares for freezing temperatures by finding a comfortable spot, sticking its nose out of the water, and allowing the ice to freeze around it. He assures viewers that the alligator is not dead, but fully alive.
The educational value of these online videos is immeasurable, according to Hanhart. They provide a unique opportunity for people to learn about alligators and appreciate their incredible adaptability.
Embracing the Fascination
As more and more people are captivated by these videos, it’s evident that the attraction towards these amazing creatures is growing. The widespread popularity of these clips highlights the natural curiosity and desire for knowledge among people. It’s heartening to see the online community engaging with and learning from these remarkable reptiles.
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Source link: NBC News