where do alligators lay their eggs

Female alligators lay their eggs in nests they build above ground, typically on the banks of marshes, swamps, ponds, or near water. These nests are made from mud, sticks, leaves, and other vegetation, forming a mound about 6 feet in diameter and 3 feet high. The nest acts as an incubator, where heat is generated by the decomposition of the plant material and sunlight to warm the eggs. After laying 15 to 60 eggs, the female covers them with vegetation to protect them and regulate temperature. She remains close to guard the nest from predators during the incubation period of about 65 days. When the eggs are ready to hatch, the mother helps the hatchlings reach the water