It's widely known that freezing temps can bring a layer of ice to ponds. But did you know the frigid weather also can make "alligator pops"? With the mercury hitting as low 18 and 20 degrees overnight in Whiteville, North Carolina, alligators are floating in stasis underneath the ice—well, mostly under the ice. The tips of their noses can be seen peeking out of small holes in the surface.
The unusual spectacle was caught on video by TikTokkers Scott and Evan on their channel 2guysandsomeland, an account that focuses on poultry farming on their land.
In the video, Scott takes viewers on a journey to check on the Swamp Park alligators, which are sitting beneath a sheet of ice. He explains that while the scaly creatures may look as if they are chilled to the core, they are actually "brumating."
According to South Carolina Aquarium, brumation is the reptile equivalent of hibernation. Since they are cold-blooded animals, alligators depend on outside temperatures to regulate their body heat. When the environment becomes too cold, they enter a short dormant period. Unlike the deep sleep of hibernation, they are simply inactive during this time. They don't eat anything but continue to hydrate.
@2guysandsomeland The Swamp Puppies are FROZEN? ? #foryou #alligator #swamp #greenscreenvideo #greenscreen
Typically, alligators make a mud hole to keep themselves warm and sheltered during the winter cold snaps. However, the Swamp Park's gators look as if they are frozen in stasis. But, if the weather warms up, the sharp-toothed predators will leave the water to warm their scales in the sun. The cycle begins again once the temperatures drop. Brumation generally lasts from November through February, depending on the climate.
Scott received many comments from concerned viewers who were worried about the well-being of the swamp puppies. He posted an update showing that all was well with the alligators. Many of them had their noses pointed above the ice so they could get air—even blowing bubbles under the warming surface.
@2guysandsomeland Day 2 of Frozen Gators!?? #foryou #boopthesnoot #alligtor #frozen
At one point, Scott reaches out and boops the snoot of one of those suspended in time—something those at home shouldn't try.
Scott said those who didn't have their noses above the ice were just fine, too. While brumating, alligators' systems slow down so much that they can hold their breath for up to 24 hours.
READ MORE: Alligators as Pets: Cool Idea or Asking For Trouble?
