In a curious turn of events, a massive alligator found its way onto the grounds of MacDill Air Force base in Florida not once, but twice. The hulking reptile, measuring an impressive 12 feet and 4 inches in length, initially sought refuge beneath the wheels of an airplane in late April. Concerned for the safety of the alligator and those on the base, two officers from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission took action. They carefully placed ropes around the alligator’s body, tail, and mouth before releasing it into the nearby Hillsborough River.
However, the wetlands did not seem to suit the alligator’s fancy, as it returned to MacDill Air Force base just three weeks later. This time, the reptile took up residence on the sidewalk near the camp’s Med Group. The base’s social media team even humorously dubbed the alligator “Airman Ally Gator” and joked about it being in charge of their complaint department.
Not wanting to risk any further incidents, officials from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission decided to relocate the alligator to Gatorama and Crocodile Adventures in Palmdale, a farm specializing in alligators located 155 miles away. The Air Force confirmed that the alligator has already made new friends in its new home. In a playful nod to its origins, the military renamed the alligator “MacDill.”
While it remains unclear whether “Major MacDill,” as it is now known, will be part of Gatorama’s alligator shows, it has been placed in breeding and exhibit ponds. The farm expressed admiration for the alligator’s size and beauty, stating, “Isn’t he beautiful? 12’4″. We hate to see these big old bull alligators killed. The stories they tell must be amazing about how he survived to this length.”
Interestingly, alligator courtship typically begins in early April, with mating taking place in May or June. These incredible creatures have a long lifespan and can grow to impressive sizes, as exemplified by the massive alligator that found its way to MacDill Air Force base. With its relocation to Gatorama and Crocodile Adventures, this resilient creature has been given a new lease on life and the opportunity to continue captivating visitors with its remarkable presence.
