Photo courtesy NC Wildlife Commission
By: Jefferson Weaver
The decision by the Wildlife Resources Commission to put a proposed alligator season on hold was a correct one.
Once nearly extinct in North Carolina, gators have rebounded in recent years – in some parts of the state. In others, the state’s second largest carnivore is still rare.
Due to increased conflicts between humans and gators, as well as the popularity of television shows on gator hunting and South Carolina’s successful gator hunting program, the commission was under some pressure to open a season here. The initial rush to create a limited season was tempered somewhat when more than 41 percent of respondents during the public comment period spoke against such a season. A number of well-respected biologists also questioned whether our population could withstand even a limited statewide hunt.
The commission is assembling a committee of professionals to objectively examine the state of the alligator in North Carolina. They’ll perform surveys, examine other state’s practices, and evaluate what can be done from a conservation and human standpoint in dealing with the big critters.
Every species of wildlife, whether game or non-game, is a precious resource. Intensive study goes into determining seasons and rules for everything from black bear to grey squirrels, and with good reason. For too long, our state (and many others) practiced the worst of wildlife management practices, leading to the extirpation of many species hunted and enjoyed by our grandparents.
Careful management has brought us to the point that North Carolina can even consider a gator season, and that in itself is a mark to be proud of. Taking a measured, careful approach to allowing even a limited harvest of alligators is the right move.
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