Feeding alligators and crocodiles is a crime in Florida. FWC rule 68A-25.001 makes it unlawful to intentionally feed or entice any crocodilian, and penalties escalate under Section 379.412. Around St. Andrew Bay and Bay County's Gulf beaches this is enforced by state wildlife officers.
Wildlife feeding in Bay County is governed chiefly by state rule, fitting for a coastal county wrapped around St. Andrew Bay with alligator-filled bayous, ponds, and canals. Florida Administrative Code 68A-25.001 prohibits intentionally feeding or enticing with feed any crocodilian, meaning alligators and crocodiles, unless the animal is held under an FWC permit. Feeding makes wild alligators associate people with food and turns them dangerous, so the state treats it seriously: under Section 379.412 a first offense is a noncriminal infraction, but repeat crocodilian or bear violations escalate to misdemeanors and a third-degree felony. Panhandle black bears draw similar rules, and disturbing nesting sea turtles on the Gulf beaches is separately protected. Backyard songbird feeders are unaffected.
Intentionally feeding alligators or crocodiles violates FWC rule 68A-25.001. A first offense is a noncriminal infraction with a civil penalty, and repeat crocodilian or bear violations escalate to misdemeanors and a third-degree felony under Section 379.412.
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