Feeding alligators is a crime in Florida. FWC rule 68A-25.001 makes it unlawful to intentionally feed or entice any alligator or crocodile. Feeding or harassing manatees in the Indian River Lagoon is also prohibited. State officers enforce both.
Wildlife feeding in Indian River County is governed chiefly by state rule, fitting for a county wrapped around the Indian River Lagoon estuary. Florida Administrative Code 68A-25.001 prohibits intentionally feeding or enticing any crocodilian — alligators and crocodiles — unless held under an FWC permit, because fed gators lose their fear of people and turn dangerous. Under section 379.412 a first offense is a noncriminal infraction; repeat crocodilian or bear violations escalate to misdemeanors and a felony. In the lagoon and Sebastian River, feeding or harassing manatees is separately barred under the Florida Manatee Sanctuary Act, and boaters must obey posted slow-speed zones. Feeding sandhill cranes is also illegal. Backyard songbird feeders are unaffected.
Intentionally feeding alligators violates FWC rule 68A-25.001; a first offense is a noncriminal infraction and repeat crocodilian or bear violations escalate to misdemeanors and a felony under section 379.412. Manatee harassment carries separate state and federal penalties.
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