The first thoughts to occupy my mind upon hearing the term "alligator" are prehistoric, powerful, and yet graceful in water and beautiful. They have been around longer than many different living creatures that live on earth. It has been said, and I believe, that they are the closest things to dinosaurs that are left on earth. Being born and raised for the most part in Louisiana, alligators were somewhat of a common sight for me …showed first 75 words of 878 total…

…showed last 75 words of 878 total…of the Everglades". Basic knowledge about safety around waters and alligators are essential in preventing accidents and potential harmful occurrences. Since alligators were here long before human beings were stepping into their ponds and swamps and building retirement homes in their backyards, they deserve proper admiration. Works Cited Godwin, Mike. The Gator Hole. 5 May. 2003. http://home.cfl.rr.com/gatorhole/. "The American Alligator". Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission. 2003. http://agrigator.ifas.ufl.edu/gators/.