Florida is known for its beautiful beaches and world-famous theme parks, but it’s also home to one of the most formidable creatures in the wild—the American alligator. These ancient reptiles dominate Florida’s freshwater habitats and often capture the attention of locals and visitors alike. Let’s take a look at five of the largest alligators ever recorded in the state.
The 5 Largest Alligators in Florida
1. 654 Pounds – 14 Feet 3.5 Inches
In November 2010, nurse and experienced hunter Robert Ammerman captured the longest alligator ever recorded in Florida. This massive reptile measured 14 feet and 3.5 inches and weighed 654 pounds. Ammerman battled the gator for 45 minutes before successfully bringing it ashore. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) confirmed the record.
2. 1,043 Pounds – 13 Feet 10.5 Inches
Discovered in April 1989 in Orange Lake, this gator remains one of the heaviest alligators ever found in Florida, weighing a staggering 1,043 pounds. Due to its enormous head, which measured 30 inches long, it was nicknamed “The Skull.” Even though its body had started to decompose, its sheer size secured its place in Florida’s history books.
3. 800 Pounds – 13 Feet 5 Inches
In May 2023, professional alligator trapper Kevin Brotz caught this massive nuisance gator near Orlando. At 13 feet 5 inches long and weighing 800 pounds, it was one of the largest nuisance alligators ever removed in Florida. It was part of the state’s nuisance alligator program, which helps control gators in areas where they pose a risk to people and pets.
4. 920 Pounds – 13 Feet 3.5 Inches
Another record-breaking alligator was captured by Kevin Brotz in September 2023 at a golf course in Orlando. This massive gator measured 13 feet 3.5 inches and weighed 920 pounds. Known for its aggressive behavior, this gator put up an intense fight, proving its strength before it was finally secured.
5. 767 Pounds – 13 Feet 2 Inches
In October 2020, Corey Capps, a plumber and outdoor enthusiast, caught the largest gator ever taken by a hunter in Florida. Using a fishing rod and harpoon, Capps successfully pulled in a 767-pound, 13-foot-2-inch gator near the Apalachicola River.
Final Thoughts
These monster gators are just a small fraction of Florida’s estimated one million alligators. While they play a crucial role in the state’s ecosystem and culture, it’s important to respect their wild nature. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has established guidelines to ensure safe coexistence with these powerful creatures.
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