Q: I took a trip along Alligator Alley last winter and found so many gators I was amazed. Months later, I returned with my daughter and could not locate one. Can you tell me if there are more alligators along the road at different times of the year? Thanks for your help.

A: Why did the alligator cross the road ... ? Just kidding.

You're very observant. The way an Everglades National Park ranger once explained it to me, there's a good reason for seeing more alligators during the winter months.

First, you have to understand Florida's seasons. Florida usually gets a lot of rain and hot, humid weather during the summer and fall, also known as hurricane season. Water levels are usually high.

During the winter and most of spring, Florida cools down and doesn't get very much rain. Water levels are usually low as a result. It's paradise.

Except, not to alligators. Because the water is lower (or even completely gone) from ponds, streams and the like, alligators start roaming around, trying to find a nice, wet place. So you're more likely to see alligators during the winter in Florida.

The drought Florida has been experiencing may have had the same effect on alligators in the drier parts of the state even during the usually wet months of summer.

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