Alligators thrive in warm, freshwater environments, making Ohio an unlikely place to find them. Yet, over the years, several large alligators have been spotted, captured, or sadly found deceased in the state. Whether they were abandoned pets or escapees, these reptiles have left a mark on Ohio’s wildlife history. Let’s take a look at the five largest alligators ever found in Ohio.
The 5 Largest Alligators Ever Found in Ohio
1. Groveport Gator – 7 Feet (2019)
In 2019, kayakers near Groveport, Ohio, discovered a seven-foot-long alligator hiding in a creek. The reptile had even built a makeshift shelter using sticks and logs, indicating it had been living there for some time.
Wildlife officials, including the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and the Columbus Zoo, safely captured the gator. It was later named “Groveport Gator” and taken to the zoo for care. Its origins remain a mystery, but experts believe it was either an escaped or abandoned pet.
2. Lorain County Alligator – 6 Feet (2018)
In 2018, a six-foot alligator was found dead in a ditch along a road in Lorain County. Investigators determined that the gator had been shot in the head by its owner, who later claimed he killed it because it was sick.
Authorities charged the man with animal cruelty and illegal possession of a dangerous wild animal. This tragic case highlights the dangers of keeping alligators as pets.
3. Muskingum Gator – 5 Feet (2011)
One of the most shocking wildlife incidents in Ohio occurred in 2011, when Terry Thompson, an exotic animal owner in Muskingum County, released 56 wild animals before taking his own life. Among the animals—including lions, tigers, and bears—was a five-foot alligator.
Law enforcement had to contain the situation quickly for public safety, and most of the animals were euthanized. However, the “Muskingum Gator” was one of the lucky ones—rescued and taken to the Columbus Zoo before being relocated to an alligator farm in Florida.
4. Hamilton Gator – 4 Feet (2015)
In 2015, a four-foot-long alligator was discovered hiding in a backyard under leaves and branches in Hamilton County. Concerned residents contacted wildlife authorities, and Arrowhead Reptile Rescue stepped in to remove it safely.
Nicknamed “Hamilton Gator,” the reptile was sent to a sanctuary. Its origins remain unknown, but it was likely an escaped or abandoned pet.
5. Franklin Gator – 3 Feet (2014)
A sewage worker in Franklin County made a shocking discovery in 2014—a three-foot alligator lodged in a pipe! The reptile was barely clinging to life when officials from Franklin County Animal Control, ODNR, and the Columbus Zoo intervened.
The gator, later named “Franklin Gator,” was rescued, rehabilitated, and given a permanent home at the Columbus Zoo. Experts suspect it may have been discarded in the sewer system.
Final Thoughts
While alligators are not native to Ohio, they continue to turn up—mostly due to human activities. Some are kept illegally as pets, leading to escapes or abandonment. Sadly, not all of them survive, but those that do often find new homes in zoos or sanctuaries.
If you ever spot an alligator in Ohio, do not approach it—instead, report it to wildlife authorities. Visitors to the Columbus Zoo can still see some of these famous gators, including Groveport Gator, Muskingum Gator, and Franklin Gator.
For more fascinating wildlife stories, check this out and explore the world of amazing reptiles.
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