UPDATE: A South Carolina mother has made headlines after catching a colossal 12-foot, 597-pound alligator just months after giving birth. Brittany Livingston, affectionately dubbed “Gator Girl,” showcased her extraordinary catch in a viral video, sparking excitement across the state.
The catch occurred in the early hours of September 2025, shortly after 3:00 a.m., as Brittany and her husband, Matt Livingston, battled the massive reptile. The couple gained attention not only for the alligator but also for a humorous drive-thru moment at a West Ashley McDonald’s, where patrons and employees flocked to see the impressive creature in their pickup truck.
“People were waving, giving thumbs up … even the workers at McDonald’s came outside to see it,” Brittany said, according to Live 5 News. The Livingstons’ adventure has captivated onlookers, with the footage of their catch spreading rapidly on social media.
For five years, Brittany had entered the lottery for an alligator hunting tag through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. This year, her name was finally selected for Unit 4, covering the Pee Dee region. “This year, I finally had enough,” she noted, reflecting on her long wait as she took maternity leave just five months ago.
Every season, over 12,000 applicants compete for just 1,400 available tags, a system designed to manage alligator populations responsibly. As Jay Butfiloski, the former alligator program coordinator, stated, “The goal is not to eliminate alligators. It’s to allow some harvest, which helps manage the population and reduce nuisance issues.”
The Livingstons’ battle with the alligator lasted several hours, culminating in a decisive shot that ended the struggle. This extraordinary event not only highlights the thrill of alligator hunting but also showcases the unique bond between the couple and their newfound fame as local heroes.
As the story unfolds, many are eager to see how this remarkable catch impacts the community and the ongoing discourse surrounding wildlife management in South Carolina. The Livingstons’ story is a testament to the excitement and challenges of outdoor adventures and the unbreakable spirit of a new mother ready to take on the world.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story that has captured hearts and sparked conversations across the state!
