Large Alligator Spotted Along Popular Katy Walking Trail

KATY MAGAZINE NEWS

June 26, 2023

By Natalie Cook Clark

A large alligator was spotted over the weekend in Katy's Mason Creek. Gators are common in Katy and can get very large.

Photo credit: Joshua Moore

Katy resident Joshua Moore and his children spotted the alligator in Mason Creek from the window of their Nottingham Country home. They saw the gator sunning itself on Saturday at 6:45 p.m. They then went outside to get some pictures. Katy is home to many wild animals that are best left alone if encountered.

Alligators are Common in Katy

Alligators are frequently seen in the Katy area near lakes, ponds, and neighborhood water areas and ditches. According to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD), "Most Texans in 'gator country' will live in close proximity to these native reptiles with no confrontations."

Mason Creek is a popular walking trail in Katy. The area attracts walkers, joggers, bike riders, and many Katy families looking for a stroll and time outdoors. Alligators are frequently spotted in Katy-area parks, trails, creeks, and have even been spotted on doorbell cameras.

Moore has lived in Katy since 2017 and hasn't encountered an alligator before.

"I didn’t see it as a problem," says Moore, who enjoyed watching the gator with his children Leah and Iman. "It’s their home. We kept out distance because they are very quick."

Photo credit: Joshua Moore

The TPWD says alligators have a natural fear of humans and will usually retreat upon seeing them and says it's uncommon for gators to approach humans. Yet, Katy families need to be careful.

Safe Practices for Katy Families

The best preventative practice is to maintain constant supervision of children when they play near any bodies of water like bayous. Teach children to be aware of their surroundings and to back away if they encounter a gator.

Do not let children play around lakes, ponds, or swamps unsupervised.
Let children know where gators could be, and to stay alert in these areas.
Warn children about the dangers of gators and what to do if they encounter one: leave the alligator alone, maintain a distance of approximately 30+ feet, and leave the area.
Remind children to stay away from the edges of lakes, ponds, or swamps.
Advise children not to go after balls or toys that landed in a lake, pond, or swamp.
Keep pets enclosed or on a leash in areas where there are gators.
Be aware of fishing lines or hooks that can attract gators due to their similarities to natural food.

If the gator is a nuisance, such as seen to be approaching people or is an obvious threat, the TPWD advises calling the law enforcement communications center at 713-779-8977.