I could have been eaten last week. That’s what I thought to myself as I prepared to walk up to alligators over twice my height (6’3″) and five times heavier than me. Why would anybody do something like that? Because it’s awesome! Would you turn down a chance to feed one of the fiercest creatures on the planet by hand?

My opportunity came courtesy of Dennis Chauncey at Gatorland in Orlando, Florida. I met Dennis as we entered the park. He offered to take me behind the scenes for a chance to go in with a couple of the stars of Gatorland. Those stops aren’t exactly on the tour. What a blast.

I’d love to tell you all the fascinating things I learned about those massive reptiles, but you can just see the footage for yourself and hear directly from my fearless guide.

There are a couple good things to know before you watch:

1. Gator wrestling began when ranchers had to clean out sparse watering holes so thirsty cows wouldn’t get eaten.

2. Florida natives are sometimes referred to as crackers, a term which came from the sound of those whips wielded by the ranchers.

3. If a gator chases you do not run zig zag. Run straight and fast. Or at least run faster than whoever’s next to you. As my host Ryan put it, ”If you can run faster than your friends you’ll love Gatorland.” Ha!

4. Leucistic alligators are extremely rare. I get to go into the box with one in the following video. Continue Reading…