Wildlife Officials Discover Massive 700-lb Gator in Southwest Georgia

A photo of a massive alligator discovered in southwest Georgia was confirmed to be the real thing, and not a hoax according to a spokesperson with Georgia's Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

"You're perfectly safe. These animals exist. They've been here for centuries. They've been existing with people for centuries and they're gonna continue to," said Brent Howze, a wildlife biologist with DNR. 

A farmer alerted the agency after he discovered the massive cold-blooded animal in an irrigation ditch.

 "He was 13 feet four inches long. 57 inches in circumference to the chest and we estimate his weight between 700 and 750 pounds," said Howze.

Wildlife officials believe the gator was at least 50 years old, but researchers are working to determine the alligator's age.

Unfortunately, the massive gator was found to be in poor condition and was believed to be dying. Wildlife officials noticed several injuries, including several gunshot wounds. Alligator hunting season is between Aug. 17 through Oct. 8, although a permit is required to legally hunt the animals.

The massive gator was ultimately euthanized.

Photo: Georgia Department of Natural Resources