Gators are native to southern Arkansas. I have seen one dead here in the northeast part where I live, but it was transplanted here several years ago. They are not native to north Arkansas. A couple of years ago the game and fish opened up a limited season here for gators, permit drawing only. I have never applied for it, might have to now.
Dave we have lots of snakes here. Copperheads and cottonmouths through out the state and rattlers scattered around in certain areas. I have never seen a coral snake here, not sure if they are here or not. I work in the ER so I see my share of snake bites, copperheads are by far the majority. They do tend to ruin a persons day when that happens.