Why It Matters
Louisiana’s first recreational alligator hunting season ended with more than 1,800 alligators taken by sport hunters. Wildlife officials and conservationists celebrated the season as evidence of the species’ recovery in the state.
What Happened
The inaugural recreational season concluded Oct. 31 after 3,600 hunters participated. Louisiana had established a limit of 10,000 alligators for the season.
The Louisiana Legislature created the season during its spring session. Sen. Robert Allain, R-Franklin, authored the bill that established it, and Gov. Jeff Landry praised the results.
Louisiana residents needed a standard hunting license and an alligator permit awarded through a lottery. Nonresidents could join a Louisiana hunter holding a recreational permit and were required to purchase a $150 out-of-state license.
The recreational hunt overlapped with Louisiana’s commercial alligator season. Commercial hunters began operating in the eastern zone in early August and in the western zone in early September. Both commercial seasons continue through Dec. 31.
Before the recreational season began, hunters using public waters and wildlife management areas needed tags issued by a state-licensed commercial hunter.
By the Numbers
More than 1,800 — alligators taken by sport hunters
3,600 — participating hunters
10,000 — maximum number of alligators set for the recreational season
$150 — cost of the nonresident license
Oct. 31 — end of the recreational season
Dec. 31 — end of both commercial seasons
2,900 — licensed commercial hunters in Louisiana
100,000 — estimated wild alligator population 50 years ago
More than 3 million — current wild alligator population
50 years — period over which the wild population increased
Zoom Out
Louisiana’s wild alligator population grew from 100,000 to more than 3 million over the past 50 years. Officials limited the taking of alligator eggs and encouraged farming as part of efforts to increase wild alligator numbers.
Landry said the state’s alligator population created an opportunity for families to participate in hunting. “We can’t wait to bring it back next year,” the governor said.
What’s Next
The commercial season remains open through Dec. 31 in both hunting zones. Landry said Louisiana plans to bring back the recreational season next year.