Alligators, Sharks & Panthers: Deadly Encounters With Florida's Top Predator - Man

by Charles Sobczak

Since 1948, there have been nearly four hundred alligator attacks in Florida, with more than a dozen fatalities. Florida leads the world in unprovoked shark attacks. This book describes 26 such fatal encounters and explores the complex relationship between these animals and the world's most dangerous predator - man.

324 pages, Paperback

First published November 16, 2006

Reviews

[Meredith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will be staying away from the water and hopefully alligators!!!
Also glad I do not live near any lions (related to panthers!!)
And the ocean is not much better with sharks.....both in Florida and Cape Cod!!!
Yikes. Very interesting book to read....

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was a decent read. The fact that it was about three different animals helped to split it up a bit.

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

I realize the message of this book is that man is the true predator, etc, etc, but I seem to have taken away from it another, unintended message: Don't ever go swimming again. And hey, while you're at it, also stay away from the edges of bodies of water, you never know. Also, proselytize to all your friends about the dangers of water, fresh and salt alike.
On a serious note, I loved this book and I've read it twice. I recommend it without reservation if you live in any of the land-locked states.

[Lexxie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sobczak explores the histories, habits, and habitats of Florida’s alligator, shark, and the elusive panther with a level of detail that’s both impressive and easy to get lost in. The book is full of facts, statistics, and real stories that stick with you.

Instead of framing wildlife as the villains, he shows how habitat destruction, pollution, and reckless development put both animals and people at risk.