The American alligator has ruled Florida’s wetlands since time immemorial. A fossil skull found in Marion County in 2016, dating back 7 to 8 million years, was nearly identical to today’s gators. In other words, he hasn’t changed, because he hasn’t had to. He’s perfect.
The largest gator ever reportedly killed in Florida was a staggering 17 feet, 5 inches. The largest confirmed one? Nearly 14 feet long and over 1,000 lbs!
But this ancient beast almost vanished for good. By the 1960s, overhunting and habitat loss had pushed him to the brink. Listed as endangered in 1967, the species made a stunning comeback thanks to conservation efforts and was officially delisted by 1987. That same year, the alligator was named Florida’s official state reptile. Today, over 1.3 million gators call Florida home.
From Seminole wrestling traditions to roadside attractions like Gatorland, the gator has always loomed large in Florida lore. He’s dangerous, sure, but fatal attacks are extremely rare: just 26 deaths in Florida over the past 75 years.
Floridians know this was his home first. Living here means learning to live with him—with caution, respect, and awe
Leave a Reply