Learn about brumation: 'Frozen' alligators still alive

It's not every day that you see alligators frozen in ice, especially along the typically mild North Carolina coastline. But it isn't as alarming as it sounds.

Alligators are often found throughout the south-east of the US. In fact, the American alligator can be found as far north as North Carolina and as far west as Texas.

While these cold-blooded animals tend to thrive in the often warm and humid south, they do something very interesting when powerful cold snaps push into the region.

The video above was taken by George Howard at the Swamp Park Outdoor Adventure Center in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, on January 21st 2024 and shows alligators suspended in ice with their snouts sticking out.

The region was experiencing cold, arctic air, strong enough to freeze the ponds where the alligators are kept. Our TemperatureRadar shows just how low the temperatures fell.

While the images may be alarming, this is actually a natural process called brumation. Brumation is similar to hibernation and is a process certain cold-blooded animals, particularly reptiles and amphibians, undergo in response to cold temperatures.

During brumation, alligators reduce their activity levels, slow down their metabolic processes, and enter a state of dormancy. Alligators also push their snouts above the ice so they can continue to breathe while in this state.

Once temperatures warm up and the ice melts, these alligators come to life once again. However, they are often a little sluggish for a day or two.