REPTILES
I n Spring 2017, NCWRC implemented a new marking and data collection protocol for all alligators handled by agency staff and permitted external han- dlers, including Alligator Control Agents, Jurisdictional Alligator Handlers, and scientific researchers. Handlers mark all new captures with an internal Pas- sive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tag, collect two tissue samples from tail scutes, determine sex, take body size measurements, and record GPS coordinates of locations of capture and release. These data can be applied to a wide range of agency initiatives that support alligator conservation and management efforts in the state. For example, this information helps biologists learn more about growth rates and movements of individuals at different life stages, evaluate the effectiveness of various management practices, and identify communities that could benefit most from outreach programs with guidance on coexisting with alli- gators. Numbers of alligators captured and marked during nuisance responses and surveys/research projects from 2017 to 2024 are shown in the figure below. Alligator Marking and Data Collection in NC by Alicia Wassmer, Alligator Biologist
At only a few days old and inches in length, each hatchling in this pod awaits its turn for a tag —the same type of microchip used by veterinarians in dogs and cats. These permanent tags are injected under the skin and a handheld scanner is used to read the number from within close range (a few inches) of a tag.
NCWRC
These numbers are inclusive of research subjects of all sizes. During nest-site surveys, dozens of hatchlings may be tagged on one day. Approximately 46% of the alligators marked since 2017 were still in vulnerable juvenile stages with high mortality rates. Only about 16% of the alligators marked in NC since 2017 were large enough to be reproductively mature adults. In some years shown, permitted scientific researchers have included Dr. Stephen Dinkelacker and Dr. Scott Belcher. Only partial data are currently available for 2024.
28 2024 Wildlife Diversity Program Annual Report
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