State waterways are playgrounds for boaters, kayakers and more, especially during the summertime. But these recreational spaces are also home to a variety of critters, some posing more risk than others.

What exactly are you to do if you spot an alligator while out on the water?

There's no avoiding the reptilian creatures. The state Department of Natural Resources estimate 100,000 alligators call South Carolina home .

Beneath the surface

Spotting a gator in the water can be tricky. In fact, most of the time you probably won't see one, although the creatures are assuredly there, said Morgan Hart, alligator project leader and biologist with DNR.

"Alligators are very good at hiding," Hart said. "Whether you see one or not isn't really going to change the way you behave."

If you are to

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