Alligators.

Letting us know whose pond this is... Photo by Ron Byrd

ALLIGATORS

Living in the Lowcountry means sharing our habitat with native wildlife, including alligators. If you see an alligator in the community, simple common sense should avoid any problems. Do not feed it or leave food out where it might find it; keep children, pets and yourself a safe distance away; keep dogs out of the water, and do not attempt to chase it away. Unfortunately, in rare instances, an alligator will become aggressive if threatened. During June 2010, a Hamilton Grove resident on Blue Dragonfly Drive reported her dog broke free while being walked, ran into the pond and was attacked by a large alligator. We're pleased to report the dog will make a full recovery. The homeowner appropriately contacted our management company and action has been taken. The SC Department of Natural Resources (DNR) was notified of the attack; the HOA has obtained the necessary permit and have contacted our wildlife company to remove the animal.

Here is information from the SC Department of Natural Resources about alligators in the Lowcounty:

While some people are entertained by feeding scraps to alligators, they need to realize that besides putting humans at risk, it literally puts a death sentence on the animal.
Conservation officers and biologists with DNR urge the public to be cautious around alligators. While typically shy and inclined to avoid confrontation with people, large alligators (over six feet) deserve respect and people should maintain a safe distance from them.
Alligators less than five-feet long are considered small, and feed on aquatic insects, small snakes, frogs and turtles. They merit respect as they have about 80 sharp teeth and may bite if threatened.
Alligators cannot run as fast as horses, and they do not chase people by running through yards.
DNR will not take action in situations involving alligators less than six-feet long and located in gator habitat (marsh, pond or river).
DNR may issue a permit for removal of large and/or aggressive alligators depending upon the situation.

Grand Oaks has a considerable amount of wetlands, all natural alligator habitats, so it is not surprising that we see as many alligators as we do. They move from pond to pond so the alligator you see today may not be the one you see tomorrow. We cannot displace them any more than they can relocate us,so we simply must coexist just as we do with deer, waterfowl, raccoons and other wildlife. For homeowners concerned about children and pets in their yards, the board suggests fencing in your property.

Dozing in the clover

Back to the pond after a nice goose dinner.

--
On the large pond near the pool.

G.Phillips
7/1/2010