PEMBROKE PINES, Fla. -- Three airboat captains in the Everglades found out that feeding alligators doesn't pay. It's also illegal.

Officers from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission arrested the three airboat captains after receiving complaints that the men were feeding alligators.

FWC conducted an undercover investigation and arrested Randy T. Rothermel, 49 and Armando Horta, 43. Both were charged with feeding alligators. Also arrested was John D. Pieper, 58. He faces charges of molesting an alligator.

On July 12, undercover FWC officers were among the many tourists who signed up for airboat rides at Everglades Holiday Park in western Broward County. During the tour, the officers witnessed and photographed the airboat captains feeding large alligators.

At one point, an alligator, eager for food, bumped one of the airboats, officers said. Tourists, including children, leaned over the edge of the airboats to take photos of the approaching alligator.

"The actions of these individuals teach tourists and visitors it is OK to feed and touch American alligators," said Lt. Rob Laubenberger. "This puts the lives of anyone imitating these actions in jeopardy. In addition, the gators will perceive humans as a source of food."

To report any wildlife law violation, such as feeding an alligator, call the Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-FWCC.