What Is an Alligator Wrangler?
Alligator Wranglers, otherwise known as Alligator Wrestlers, are animal handlers who work with alligators. For some, alligator wrangling is merely a hobby, but for others it is a career choice.
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History
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It is unknown exactly who started the "sport" of alligator wrangling, or when it began. Many Native American tribes have been known to have a family history of wrangling for generations.
"Wrangling" Misnomer
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There is no true "wrangling" involved, but instead the handler is trained in safe and responsible interaction with the creature.
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Training
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Colorado Gators is the only place in the United States where "training" in the art of alligator wrangling is taught. According to their website, wranglers attending a three-hour course will have worked up to wrestling gators nine feet in length.
Competitions
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Alligator wrangling contests include tricks such as getting the gator to open its mouth (the "Florida Smile") and tucking the gator's head against the handler's neck ("Bulldogging"). Scoring is accomplished under six categories, including alligator aggressiveness and style.
Professions
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Alligator farms often employ alligator wranglers, who master tricks to perform in front of crowds. Even with the obvious risks involved in alligator wrangling, most wranglers make a very small wage, averaging $8 per hour.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit alligator on payne"s prairie image by Earl Robbins from Fotolia.com
