Scary Things Found When Cameras Were Put Down the Sewer System

A new study finds that alligators, along with dozens of other animals, are using Florida's sewer system to move around the city.

Scientists have long known that the state’s extensive storm sewer system is home to a variety of wildlife. But a new study published in the journal Urban Naturalist reveals for the first time the extent to which Florida’s sewer system is used by alligators and other species.

“It was like a scene from the Ninja Turtles,” said Alan Ivory, a PhD student at the University of Florida who led the study. “The biodiversity in the sewer system is incredible.”

A total of 35 different species have been recorded in the sewer system in Alachua County, Florida. (Photo: Alan Ivory, UF/IFAS)

To track how wildlife moves through the system, researchers placed 39 magnetic motion-sensor cameras in storm drains at multiple locations in Alachua County, Florida. The cameras were scheduled to run for 60 days, but some were stolen by curious animals, especially raccoons.

During the study, the cameras captured more than 3,700 animal images, recording a total of 35 different species, including amphibians, reptiles, and 12 bird species. Raccoons were the most frequently seen, with more than 1,800 recorded occurrences. The second most frequently observed species was the Myotis bat, which appeared nearly 700 times.

Notably, seven species of reptiles were also found, including the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), which was found at the most locations. Of the five sites surveyed, four recorded the presence of alligators. According to the study, most alligators swim from pond to pond through underground sewers, helping them avoid crossing busy roads.

This finding helps scientists better understand how urban drainage systems affect the movement and distribution of wildlife in Florida.

Quoc Tiep (according to Express Newspapers)

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