I grew up in South Florida.
(1952)
There was only the glades west of my home too back then.
Use to go with an uncle on an airboat hunting wild boar and gator in those glades.
Believe me, there were more gators back then, a lot more.
It’s just that we have intruded into their territory and took over thousands of acres that they use to roam.
Another thing .. anyone that tells you that gator taste good has never really eaten it or is lying to you!🥴
Taste like the swampy murky waters they come from!
One other option about that taste thing .. if you completely cover the gator meat with the right sauce, it can be somewhat acceptable!😁
never tried to eat gater meat, rattle snake - yes. Of course, over a camp fire everything is good.