Largest alligator in florida. [3] The park works with the Florida Fish and Wildlife .

Largest alligator in florida Alligators can be distinguished from the by head shape and color. The male was captured in Central Florida in 2010. Millions of Sep 25, 2025 · American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) are typically 8. The sight of a massive alligator basking in the sun or gracefully gliding through the water is a sight to behold, instilling a sense of wonder and respect for these magnificent creatures. Gator hunting is a popular activity in Florida, Alabama, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Arkansas, where In this article we learn a little bit about the alligators in Florida, and the American alligator in general as a species. The Allure of the Apex Predator Alligators, ancient denizens of the American Aug 28, 2023 · What is an Alligator Gar? The largest alligator gar ever caught in Florida was 132 lbs. Discover the best places to spot alligators! Mar 13, 2025 · The state of Florida is home to a wide variety of animals, including the American alligator, which is considered to be one of the state’s most formidable inhabitants. We had seen many alligators as we toured and hiked along the west coast of Florida, but we heard that the huge man-eating variety hung out in the Everglades. Video courtesy of Charlie Helms. It is one of the two extant species in the genus Alligator, and is larger than the only other living alligator species, the Chinese alligator. Jun 13, 2023 · Alligators live in all 67 counties of Florida with a large population living in the Everglades. Aug 25, 2020 · Alligators in Florida live in marshes, swamps, and freshwater. The alligator gar is the largest member of the Family Lepisosteidae, reaching 8 feet (2. Swampy: World's Largest Alligator Christmas, Florida Swampy is big -- big enough to contain the gift shop, cafe, ticket counter, restrooms, and offices of Jungle Adventures, in the otherwise holiday-season-themed town of Christmas, Florida. Mar 7, 2025 · Meet the largest alligator ever recorded in the Everglades and uncover wild facts about its size, age, and the incredible world it came from. Louisiana and Florida have the largest alligator populations—there are more than one million wild alligators in each state. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park and the conservation work we do with partners around the world to ensure the survival of the many species in our collection. The accompanying footage, captured Saturday Apr 5, 2016 · A gator killed in South Florida has some wondering whether its the largest ever caught in the state. 3 million of the fanged reptiles residing across the peninsula's many lakes, swamps, rivers, reservoirs, canals, and golf courses. Would you believe alligators can reach 15 feet in length? Mar 26, 2019 · The World’s Largest Alligator “Godzilla” has been spotted in Lakeland, Florida at Circle B Bar Reserve Park, Polk County. The alligator gars are distinguished by their relatively Aug 31, 2025 · Discover what makes Lake Jesup one of Florida's most alligator infested lakes. Jul 30, 2025 · Here's an estimate of how many alligators live in Florida, a list of the top five most alligator-infested in the state and some safety tips. The American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), sometimes referred to as a common alligator or simply gator, is a large crocodilian reptile native to the Southeastern United States. Nov 4, 2024 · While Louisiana and Florida have the largest population of alligators, the largest ever found was located in another state entirely. ! 🐊💪 Dec 3, 2024 · A large alligator nicknamed 'Godzilla' was caught on video dragging an enormous Burmese python through the water in the Florida Everglades. Alligators over 4 feet long can be reported and removed if they are on people’s property, but what about really big gators? What is the biggest alligator ever found in Florida? Recent headline: “11-foot alligator found in a family pool” Mar 4, 2024 · If you came across an alligator in your yard (a totally plausible scenario in a place like Florida), you might think it's the biggest alligator you ever saw. Feb 26, 2025 · From the Everglades to wildlife parks, explore the top 10 Florida destinations where you’re most likely to encounter the state's infamous alligators. Kevin Brotz runs Oct 8, 2024 · The largest alligator recorded in the state of Florida was a whopping 17 feet, 5 inches, according to Everglades National Park. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is one of the most unique and fascinating attractions in Florida. Jul 1, 2025 · Due to the attention of Alligator Alcatraz, an ICE detention center in the Florida Everglades, many may be wondering about the gator population here. Among these ancient reptiles, one alligator stands out as an extraordinary example of size and power. Everglades Alligator Farm is a wildlife park in Miami-Dade County, Florida, nearby the city of Homestead and the entrance of Everglades National Park. The American alligator is found primarily in the Southeastern United States along the Gulf Coast. Feb 11, 2024 · Florida boasts renowned sunny beaches, thrilling theme parks, and a rich array of wildlife, with the American alligator standing out as one of its most formidable inhabitants. Learn about wildlife research conducted at The St. May 20, 2025 · North America is home to the American alligator, one of the largest reptiles on the planet. Let's rank the 10 most alligator-infested states! May 16, 2025 · Explore the biggest alligators ever found in each state, from massive swamp giants to legendary river rulers—learn about their size, habitat, and incredible stories. But if it's not pushing 1,000 pounds and 15 feet in length, then it's likely not breaking any records. A saltwater crocodile, or “Saltie” as his species is called in Australia, Maximo hatched from an egg collected by aborigines along an Australian riverbank. How long exactly is Swampy? "Pretty damn long!" a manager's voice blares from the phone at the cashier's Dec 6, 2024 · Explore the biggest alligators ever caught, including a 19-foot monster in Louisiana and a 1,000-pound gator in Alabama, and learn about their habitats and conservation efforts. For 8 years he was known for his nutria -tossing abilities and his Jan 16, 2025 · Sharing Space With Alligators The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission estimates there are around 1. 9 kilograms), while females can reach lengths of 22 inches (55. Mar 19, 2025 · This Florida man almost breaks the state record of the largest alligator catch when he catches a 13-foot alligator weighing 920 pounds. Mar 27, 2024 · Embark on a unique Florida adventure and explore the world's largest alligator-shaped building, a quirky roadside attraction sure to fascinate. 7 centimeters) and 249 pounds (112. Sep 1, 2023 · A Central Florida alligator hunting guide made a catch of a lifetime, bringing in a gator that weighed a whopping 920 pounds and measured 13 feet 3 ¼ inches long, he said. 3 million gators, Florida didn't top the list What to do if you see a Florida gator? Avoid feeding alligators and keep your distance if you Mar 13, 2025 · A giant alligator was spotted by golfers in Kissimmee, Florida, during mating season. Shirley Schultz, familiar with Florida's wildlife, was both amazed and cautious as the gator approached. FWC estimates Lake Kissimmee has second highest population of gators in the state, with Lake Okeechobee No. Feb 6, 2024 · Huge alligator, called Fabio by locals, was seen in a video walking across a Lakeland, Florida, park path and showing off its massive body. Having long torpedo-shaped bodies, broad snouts, and hard, diamond-shaped (ganoid) scales, they are easily distinguished from other freshwater fish species. Visit reports, news, maps, directions and info on Swampy: World's Largest Alligator in Christmas, Florida. Sep 7, 2023 · Hunter in Florida Catches Record-Breaking Alligator A hunter in Florida has reportedly nabbed the largest alligator in state history at more than 14 feet long. com Alligator gars are one of the largest freshwater fish. Here are ten must-sees for when Aug 25, 2025 · The largest confirmed alligator ever killed in Florida was 14 feet and 3. Oct 31, 2020 · For three years Corey Capps had been dreaming of catching the massive alligator in the river behind his home in Blountstown, Florida. 3 million of the fanged reptiles residing across the peninsula's many lakes, swamps, rivers, reservoirs Sep 4, 2023 · REAL-LIFE DINOSAURS World’s biggest alligators as beast snared in Florida – from 19ft long giant to 2ton monster caught by fishermen Jaw-eye view of the World's Largest Alligator. 5 inches. [1] He was purchased by Terri and Arthur Jones in 1985 and was kept in Ocala, Florida, for five years before being sold to the St. 8 Feb 7, 2024 · Florida is home to more than 1 million alligators, but there's only one Fabio, a giant among giants in the Circle B Bar Reserve wetlands in Polk County. Oct 20, 2022 · The gift shop sells frozen alligator meat for your barbecuing pleasure, and visitors can pet a tarantula. Covering 35,000 acres, it is Florida’s third-largest lake, known for its alligators and popular among outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, hiking, or kayaking. Documented sightings and captures have sparked significant interest and curiosity about the size of these creatures, instigating discussions amongst both the See full list on ourplnt. 2 to 14. [3] The park works with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Aug 29, 2024 · The St. The American crocodile has a narrow snout, and the fourth tooth of the lower jaw protrudes when closed. In the early 1950s Owen bought a 15-foot gator, named it Bone Crusher, and displayed it as the Florida is synonymous with its iconic wildlife, and none captures the imagination quite like the majestic American Alligator. 5 million acres of alligator Sep 1, 2023 · Three hunters from Florida caught a 920-pound, 13-foot alligator in Orlando, and the reptile might be the state's second heaviest. Jun 10, 2025 · Florida’s largest officially measured alligator stretched 14 feet, 3. Gomek in 1989 (aged 62) Gomek (1927 – March 6, 1997) was a large saltwater crocodile captured by George Craig in Papua New Guinea in 1968. 5 m (11. Dec 14, 2024 · Florida has the second largest alligator population in the United States, with more than 1. This article delves into the factors influencing alligator size, explores the legends surrounding massive gators, and addresses frequently asked questions about these formidable AN = statewide nuisance alligator program, S = statewide alligator harvest program, R = research collections, P = private lands alligator management program *TL = total length; SVL = snout-vent length; HL = head length; WT = weight. Here are lakes with highest gator counts Serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, but if you're concerned, call nuisance May 7, 2025 · A woman was killed by an alligator May 6, 2025, while on Lake Kissimmee in Florida. Although alligators can be found in ponds, lakes, canals, rivers, swamps, and bayous in Louisiana, they are most common in our coastal marshes. S. (FOX 13) - Two hunters at a Florida farm say it's the largest alligator they've ever captured in the wild: nearly 15 feet long. Florida and Louisiana boast the highest populations of these enormous reptiles, which inhabit Apr 6, 2016 · OKEECHOBEE, Fla. Christmas, Florida E Added By emilyjschieferdecker Welcome to Christmas, Florida, home to the world's largest gator, Swampy. 2006, Pritchard 2006). Due to their intimidating presence, these ancient reptiles, which are frequently seen in the freshwater ecosystems of Florida, grab the attention Alligator management programs implemented by FWC emphasize the conservation of alligator populations for their ecological, aesthetic, and economic values while providing for public use and safety. com Guide to Florida Alligator Attractions The first shot in the big gator battle was fired by Owen Godwin, who ran a struggling attraction in Kissimmee named The Florida Wildlife Institute. The Florida has the second largest alligator population in the United States, with more than 1. More than just an alligator, Swampy is a giant fiberglass statue that has become a symbol of the town and a major tourist attraction. Their deep, bellowing calls and dramatic courtship displays add to their mystique, making them a bucket-list sighting for many. Perhaps nothing symbolizes Florida in the popular imagination more than the American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis). Adult male American alligators measure 3. , from Alabama's record-breaking Stokes Alligator to giants captured in several other states. 2: Size Matters RoadsideAmerica. Florida, known for its sprawling wetlands and diverse wildlife, is home to some of the most impressive alligators in North America. For the most part, you’ll find them in freshwater lakes, slow-moving rivers, swamplands, and brackish wetlands. Let’s Mar 15, 2024 · ESTO, Fla. While there are many unconfirmed reports of even larger alligators, these four specimens are some of the largest ever recorded. Dec 10, 2023 · With over 1 million alligators living in waterways all across Florida, it’s safe to assume that if you see a body of water, there’s an alligator in it. Additionally, it provides airboat rides through the Floridian wilderness. Sure, there are great beaches, natural springs, terrific parks (both eco and Disneyesque), but what speaks more about the "REAL" Florida than alligators? It was the time to point our Winnebago down the roads that lead deep into the swamps Dec 3, 2024 · An alligator in the Florida Everglades was spotted swimming with one of the largest Burmese pythons we've ever seen in its mouth. Oct 12, 2025 · Alligator in the marsh at the edge of Lake Tohipekaliga Kissimmee Florida. The accompanying footage was shared Sunday by Matt Devitt of WINK Weather . Jun 13, 2023 · Swampy the Alligator Measuring approximately 200 feet long, Swampy is the world's largest alligator-shaped building. Photo credit: Don Brandon Nestled in the aptly named town of Christmas, Florida (yes, that’s a real place), this funky roadside zoo is like stepping into a time warp of Florida kitsch. Sep 12, 2023 · The 920 lb Florida alligator, measuring over 13 feet long, is the second largest recorded caught in the state. Sep 25, 2023 · The alligator was located and euthanized in Pinellas County after human remains were found nearby it in a waterway there. ! ©tristan tan/Shutterstock. Mar 20, 2025 · The biggest alligator at the Legends at Parris Island Golf Course in Port Royal is known to gobble down raccoons with a single bite. Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube. It died at the hands of a trapper, who had been called in for a nuisance gator problem, in 2010, in Lake Washington. Jun 19, 2025 · The largest alligator discoveries have come from the subtropical wetlands of Florida, particularly in Everglades National Park. You are reading: The Top 9 Largest Alligators Ever From the Stokes Alligator, which is the biggest verified alligator in the world, to the Florida farm alligator, which is one of the heaviest alligators ever recorded, we will provide you with all the details. Alligators have a broad, rounded snout with no lower teeth visible when their jaw is closed. Sep 11, 2023 · The enormous alligator was over 13 feet long and weighed 920 pounds — the second heaviest ever to be caught in Florida. Jun 19, 2025 · Explore the biggest gators ever caught, from official records to notable captures like Florida’s Bigfoot and the Alachua County Monster. 5 inches, though the state has numerous unverified reports of larger specimens. 3 million alligators living in Florida’s waters. These ancient reptiles, commonly sighted in Florida’s freshwater habitats, captivate with their imposing presence. They are members of the “ gar ” family that includes seven different species like the longnose gar and spotted gar. It claims to be the oldest and largest alligator farm in South Florida, along with containing over 2,000 alligators. Though the largest alligator in Florida may vary in size and location, one thing remains constant – the sheer power and majesty of these incredible reptiles. Jun 1, 2025 · Discover the largest alligators ever found in the U. Appearance The alligator snapping turtle is the largest freshwater turtle in North America. The inner mouth lining is gray/brown with black Dec 11, 2023 · ORLANDO, Fla. The state is also known for its famously sunny beaches and exciting theme parks. , much larger than the average of 60 lbs. 5-11 feet long and weigh 200-500 pounds. Therefore, looking in lakes like Okeechobee, George, Kissimmee, and the Everglades system significantly increases your chances of Mar 24, 2025 · A fight between a crocodile and an alligator in Florida was recently caught on video. Sep 15, 2023 · We will also look at some unconfirmed reports of even bigger alligators. With its vast network of swamps, lakes, and rivers, the Sunshine State offers an alligator’s paradise. Augustine Alligator Farm Say hello to Maximo — the BIGGEST crocodile in Florida and one of the largest in the U. 44 m) in length and over 300 pounds (136 kg). Meet MAXIMO: Florida’s Largest Crocodile 15ft, 1,250lbs Giant | St. Jan 6, 2025 · Alligators are native wildlife in Florida, so it should come as no surprise that several lakes have large numbers of alligators. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park in Florida. " "Jungle Adventures, a Real Florida Animal Park, is the natural habitat jungle home of the famous 200-foot-long roadside wonder, Swampy, the world’s largest alligator, and a popular photo opportunity for everyone," the Visit Florida reports. With a name derived from the Spanish word legarto (the lizard), alligators can grow to an average of 13 to 15 Nov 21, 2024 · This Florida lake could be home to 30,000 alligators. The large alligator population plus the state’s increasing human population means a higher likelihood of human and alligator encounters. 5 days ago · What is the Biggest Alligator in Florida? Unveiling the Reptilian Giant The undisputed champion of size among Florida alligators remains unconfirmed, but evidence suggests they can reach lengths exceeding 14 feet. Nov 27, 2023 · "Croczilla," a 14-foot crocodile that may be the largest in Florida, was spotted basking in the sun in Everglades National Park. Come face-to-face with impressive 15 foot 3 inch, 1,250-pound Maximo, the largest animal at The St. 5 pounds. Adult alligators are Dec 19, 2024 · Swampy, the World’s Largest Alligator, grins wide, inviting brave souls into a world where prehistoric meets pure Florida fun. Louisiana has the most alligators, but some would argue that Florida's are housed in the more dramatic scenery, namely the awesome Everglades National Park. 5 inches long. — A Central Florida hunting guide said he and his team caught what could be the second heaviest alligator ever harvested in the state. Appearance The American alligator is a large aquatic reptile and is one of two crocodilians native to Florida. Gators! Pt. Nov 19, 2024 · Largest alligator population by state in 2024? With 1. Are crocodiles native to the Sunshine State? One Florida alligator guide named Kevin Brotz, who has hundreds of tagged gators to his credit, certainly understands that fascination, living recently in the eye of a news media and social media hurricane after tagging one of history’s biggest swamp lizards on a backwater lake near Orlando. Augustine Alligator Farm. com Mar 16, 2025 · The state of Florida is home to a wide variety of animals, including the American alligator, which is considered to be one of the state’s most formidable inhabitants. Sep 1, 2023 · ORLANDO, Fla. The alligator was captured in Louisiana in the early 1900s and was the largest alligator ever recorded until the Stokes Alligator was captured in 2014. Established in 1893, it’s one of the oldest continuously running attractions in the state and has grown into a world-class zoological park. From rare albino alligators to stunning, wild bird sightings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These near-record alligators demonstrate that while the Stokes specimen was exceptional, it represents the upper limit of a natural size range rather than a biological anomaly, suggesting other Nov 13, 2025 · Where Are The Biggest Alligators in Florida? The largest alligators in Florida tend to inhabit the more remote, undisturbed areas, particularly the vast wetlands of Central and South Florida, offering them ample space and resources to grow to impressive sizes. When discussing a florida large alligator, people often envision the immense reptiles that command respect in their natural hab 2 days ago · Unveiling the Colossus: What is the Largest Alligator Ever Killed in the United States? The undisputed record holder for the largest alligator ever killed in the United States is a massive reptile harvested in 2014 in Wilcox County, Alabama, measuring an astounding 15 feet 9 inches long and weighing 1,011. A video taken by Kim Joiner of a HUGE gator is going viral on Facebook right now. Despite its name, Lake Kissimmee is approximately 55 miles from Kissimmee, Florida, in Osceola County. Dec 31, 2023 · Want to know what the largest alligators ever found in the United States measure in at? Find out in this article. A giant alligator took a stroll across the fairway, making his way to the lake beside the third hole at Buffalo Creek Golf Club. Jul 29, 2025 · Have you heard of Swampy? He's the biggest gator in Florida, and you'll want to plan a road trip to see this giant wonder for yourself. Per the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, the biggest came in just over 1,000 Apr 5, 2016 · The Florida state record for the largest alligator caught is 14 feet, 3 1/2 inches from Lake Washington, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Committee. See the photos of the "giant" catch. – Florida is a state well-known for its alligators, though one legendary alligator took the cake during the 20th Century — an 18-foot-long bull alligator nicknamed “Two-Toed Tom Nov 26, 2024 · Largest Florida alligators on record? According to FWC, the Florida state record for length is a 14-foot 3 1/2-inch male from Lake Washington in Brevard County. In Florida, the American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) is a keystone species, shaping ecosystems by creating habitats like alligator holes that sustain countless other creatures during dry seasons. 9 centimeters) and 62 pounds (28. This is Florida's real Gatorland and I'm about to track down this Jul 27, 2025 · Brotz further told WESH that his caputre could possibly be the second-biggest alligator ever caught in Florida. These areas provide a perfect blend of waterways and dense vegetation, allowing alligators to move freely while staying hidden from predators or prey. Feb 16, 2023 · See the massive alligator found lurking in a South Florida swamp According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the largest alligator ever caught in a hunt was 14 feet 3. In the wild, alligators can live 35-50 years, whereas they can live a long 60-80 years in the care of humans. From the earliest Native American and European explorers to the present day, visitors have maintained a fascination with the cold-blooded, freshwater reptile. The ABC Action News app brings you the latest trusted news and information. Only in Florida, it seems, can a golfer be trying to sink a putt with a giant alligator strolling alongside the green. 1 kilograms) (Ewert et al. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. Male alligator snapping turtles can reach lengths of 29 inches (73. Due to their intimidating presence, these ancient reptiles, which are frequently seen in the freshwater ecosystems of Florida, grab the attention Jan 27, 2022 · Florida Alligator Facts Alligator Distribution The American Alligator is only found in the Southeastern United States, in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, And North and South Carolina. Lee Lightsey, the owner of Outwest Farms in Okeechobee, and hunting guide, Blake Godwin, discovered the monster alligator in one their cattle ponds while Meet Crusher, Wild Florida’s 14-foot-long American alligator! Learn his story, discover gator facts, and plan your visit to see him up close. Of the almost 4. Apr 26, 2025 · Florida is a haven for alligators, boasting the largest population in the United States. 1 Maximo soaks in his play pool at St. 4 to 4. - Did you know that seven Florida lakes contain more alligators than other lakes in the country? AZ-Animals, a team of animal-loving experts who provide education about animals on Range and Habitat Alligators range from central Texas eastward to North Carolina. ebx qbonxvy wgfjtz swfrxa fufnd bjqsn bmn yacmvnv ktccc uhtrh ewbfj tdfs mhag hedo gydv