Alligator Production: Grow-out and Harvesting

What are the essential management skills for alligator producers?

• Providing proper physical conditions, adequate nutrition, and a nonstressful environment

• Ensuring high intensity production similar to poultry and swine houses

• Domesticating alligators and removing them from the wild

• Managing the risks and demands of alligator farming

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-1

What is the purpose of the 5-foot wide deck in the pen?

• To reduce heat loss in the grow-out building

• To facilitate cleaning of the pen

• To separate the pen into two sections

• To provide a feeding and basking area for the alligators

What is the recommended temperature range for grow-out buildings?

• 86-88°F

• 84-86°F

• 82-84°F

• 80-82°F

What type of diets do alligators consume in the wild?

• Diets high in protein and low in fat

• Diets high in vegetables and fruits

• Diets high in carbohydrates and sugars

• Diets high in fish flesh

What are the commercial alligator feeds made of?

• Grains, fruits, and vegetables

• Fish meal, meat and bone meal, blood meal, and some vegetable protein

• Artificial ingredients and preservatives

• Processed meat products

What are the signs of stress in alligators?

• Piling-up, reduced feeding, stargazing, and fighting

• Increased feeding, aggression, and territoriality

• Increased basking, vocalization, and curiosity

• Hiding, decreased growth, and lethargy

What is the purpose of chilling alligators before skinning?

• To reduce stress in the alligators

• To make the skinning process easier

• To improve the quality of the hides

• To prevent bacterial growth on the hides

What is the recommended method for preserving alligator hides?

• Covering the hides in salt and allowing them to dry

• Freezing the hides until they can be processed

• Treating the hides with chemicals to prevent decay

• Storing the hides in a cool, dark place

What is the recommended handling equipment for alligators?

• Heavy leather boots and gloves

• Plastic gloves and rubber boots

• No specific equipment is necessary

• Bare hands and feet

Alligator butchers are referred to as

• Olaf

• Anna

• Elsa

• Sven