Lesson 2: Reptiles and Amphibians
In warmer climates, golf courses are home to a remarkable variety of reptiles and amphibians. In Florida, alligators are a regular and famous presence on golf courses — a genuine large predator sharing space with golfers.
Lizards hunt insects in the rough. Frogs and toads live near water features and come out to feed at night and after rain. Turtles sun themselves on the banks of ponds.
These animals are part of the ecosystem. They were here before the golf course was built, and they have adapted to living alongside it.
Respecting their space and understanding their behavior is part of being an environmentally aware golfer.
Alligators were living in Florida long before golf courses existed. When a golf course is built where alligators live, whose home is it really? How should golfers behave to be good neighbors to the animals that were there first?
Research one reptile or amphibian that is commonly found at golf courses in your region. Write three facts about it in your nature journal and draw a picture. If you see one on the course today, observe it from a safe distance — never approach or disturb wildlife.
The alligator question is almost certain to come up in Florida. This is an excellent opportunity to discuss the difference between a dangerous animal and a harmful one — alligators are dangerous if approached, but they are an important part of the Florida ecosystem and have been here far longer than any golf course. Respect, not fear, is the right response.