See the Gigantic “Godzilla” Gator From Lakeland, Florida

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In the video above, hikers at the Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland, Florida, marveled at the sight of this gigantic gator casually sauntering across the trail. Known to the locals as “The Big Humpback” due to its rounded back, this ancient alligator is estimated to be a staggering 13-15 feet long.

With his feet slapping the ground and his massive tail dragging behind him, it’s no wonder those who have seen this monster have nicknamed it “Godzilla.” Luckily, The Big Humpback seems to have no interest in wreaking havoc on downtown Lakeland. Yet, instead of being intimidated by this apex predator, residents turned up in droves to catch a glimpse of the prehistoric-looking reptile.

Florida Alligator Habitats

Alligators live in the waters and wetlands of every county in Florida. The state has more than 7,800 freshwater lakes and 1,200 freshwater rivers that are a gator’s preferred habitat. However, they can also be found in smaller bodies of water like marshes, bogs, and swamps.

In the early 2000s, the Circle B Bar Reserve was acquired by the Polk County Environmental Lands Program and the Southwest Florida Water Management District. Their goal was to protect the Lake Hancock floodplain and restore the marsh system. Proximity to the lake, the freshwater marsh, and the hardwood swamp make the reserve a perfect home for The Big Humpback and his fellow gators.

Size and Weight of the Average Gator

Female alligators average around eight feet in length and can weigh over 300 pounds. Male gators are much larger, averaging around 11 feet, with some exceptionally large male gators reaching 1,000 pounds. The Florida state record for the longest alligator is 14 feet 3-1/2 inches, while the record for weight is 1,043 pounds. At 13-15 feet long, The Big Humpback is an unusually large reptile, which has prompted the excitement.

The Gator Lifespan

Locals say The Big Humpback has been in the area for decades. That may sound unbelievable, but the lifespan of an American alligator in the wild is around 50 years. In captivity, they have been known to live as long as 70 years. The long lifespan is primarily because adult alligators have few natural predators. Once a gator reaches around four feet long, it is safe from predators except humans.

Sharing Space With Alligators

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission estimates there are around 1.3 million alligators living in Florida’s waters. The large alligator population plus the state’s increasing human population means a higher likelihood of human and alligator encounters. In fact, Circle B Bar Reserve notes that you’re almost guaranteed to see alligators in nearby Lake Hancock.

Although it’s thrilling to see such an incredible animal up close, safety is paramount. Experts recommend a distance of 30 feet from an alligator. If you find you’re too close, then slowly back away. Do not get between the alligator and a water source. Gators are known to be the most active between dusk and dawn. Swim during the day in designated areas. Do not allow your pet near the water’s edge, as the alligator may see your pet as their natural prey. Finally, never feed an alligator. This is not only dangerous, but it’s also illegal in every state alligators are naturally found.