Gator Country: Deception, Danger, and Alligators in the Everglades By Rebecca Renner

Gator Country takes you on an adrenaline-fueled journey into Florida's dark underbelly, where Officer Jeff Babauta dives deep into the dangerous world of alligator poaching. Channeling his inner Florida Man, he creates Sunshine Alligator Farm to infiltrate this murky realm. The story unfolds with glow-in-the-dark alligators, high-speed airboat rides, and a surprising realization: not all poachers are villains.

Babauta encounters individuals struggling against poverty and greed, revealing the complex choices they face for survival. Gator Country delves into this strange ecosystem, challenging preconceptions about right and wrong, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice. The narrative paints a vivid picture of Florida's vibrant yet perilous landscapes, offering intimate portraits of the people who call it home.

This unique blend of reporting, nature writing, and personal narrative propels readers through a fast-paced tale, exploring the risks people take to survive in a beautiful yet formidable environment. Gator Country is more than a thrilling adventure; it's a nuanced look at the fine line between law and lawlessness, unveiling the lengths some will go to protect the natural world.

The undercover investigation threatens to unravel the entire scheme, providing a gripping narrative that captures the essence of Florida's mysterious allure. 📚❤️