MATRIARCH of the MARSHLAND

One sweltering afternoon, as Shawn was fishing, he glanced behind da Boat House and saw an alligator on land right on the waters edge. When she saw him, she quickly jumped in the bayou and dove down to hide. A while later when Shawn carefully snuck back, there she was again, sunning herself and recharging her batteries. This alligator had a different coloring than most. In fact, not only did she have the normally dark green and black coloring of most alligators, she also displayed just a touch of grey. So in honor of the Greatful Dead song and their lead singer Mr. Jerry Garcia, Miss Garcia earned her name. You should know, Garcia and Doc are quite fond of each other. In fact, Piper and Holly are definitely their children. How can we be sure? …just like in people….mannerisms. …and how can we be sure Garcia is a “she”? ….when you see an adult alligator with a group of baby alligators, and they protect them, this is female alligator behavior. …and Garcia most definitely has proven this, time and time again.