Massive Alligator Caught Not Once, But Twice, near Hilton Head, S.C.

by
posted on June 6, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
wilder_ah2015_fs.jpg (18)

Finding an alligator prowling around the area is something that residents in the southeastern part of the country are relatively accustomed to dealing with—but finding a 12-foot monster that looks like it walked right out of a Discovery Channel special? That's a little less common. Even more so when it turns up a second time.

That's essentially what happened in Hilton Head, S.C., according to a report from The Island Packet. Last week, Critter Management owner Joe Maffo was called to help take care of one massive gator—which he estimated was 12-feet, 8-inches long and weighed nearly a half-ton—that had appeared on a local roadway. Maffo and his team showed up, wrangled the big ol' reptile and ultimately released it at the point of a local creek, expecting that it would decide Hilton Head was too much trouble and head for greener pastures.

They were wrong. The next day, Maffo responded to another call on the island—and came face-to-face with the same gator. He and his team corralled it, again, and released it—again. This time he chose a spot near a wildlife refuge. Someone managed to get some video of the monster during the release, which you'll find at the bottom of this post.

The Associated Press is reporting that the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is actually planning on investigating the case, since "nuisance" alligators are typically eliminated, rather than re-released, for the safety of the public.

Get a look at the gargantuan gator yourself in the video embedded below.

Latest

LEDE Rifle
LEDE Rifle

Hardware Review: Steyr Pro Hunter III SX

While its most recognizable gun remains the ever-futuristic-looking AUG tactical bullpup first made in 1977 and still used by militaries worldwide, Steyr also makes handguns and hunting rifles. Its Pro Hunter III SX rifle is an all-around hunting rifle and a great example of Steyr quality, a trait much easier felt than described. I’ll try it anyway.

NRA Foundation Awards $250,000 Grant to USA Shooting to Support National Team Programs

The NRA Foundation announced a $250,000 grant to USA Shooting to support the organization’s national team programs.

Copper Mine Helps Boost Arizona’s Bighorn Population

One of the world’s most productive copper mines is also one of Arizona’s most reliable sources of Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. The bighorns are not shy about entering the Freeport McMoRan open-pit mining operation—near Morenci, Ariz.—but predators are. As a result, there’s no natural check on sheep population growth.

#SundayGunday: Savage Arms AC30 B.O.B. Suppressor

This week, Shooting Illustrated's Jay Grazio makes a guest appearance to showcase the Savage Arms AC30 B.O.B. suppressor.

Upland Birds of the Wild West

Big game attracts many hunters to the West, but the region is also home to some of the country’s best upland bird hunting.

Big Buck Business: Whitetail Gear Roundup

Have you noticed some holes in your deer kit this season? Some shortcomings that need addressing? Check out this roundup of whitetail gear tailor made for dropping big bucks.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.