South Carolina Mom Catches 12-Foot Gator Just Months After Birth

UPDATE: A South Carolina woman has made headlines by catching a massive alligator measuring 12 feet and weighing 597 pounds, just months after giving birth. Brittany Livingston, nicknamed “Gator Girl,” has captured the attention of locals after a stunning catch that has gone viral.

Earlier today, the Livingstons shared footage of their impressive catch, sparking excitement across the state. The couple even made a memorable stop at a West Ashley McDonald’s drive-thru with the alligator in the back of their pickup truck, thrilling onlookers. “We had a lot of eyes on us,” Brittany stated, as reported by Live 5 News. “People were waving, giving thumbs up … even the workers at McDonald’s came outside to see it.”

For five years, Brittany applied for an alligator hunting tag through South Carolina’s lottery system, which is designed to regulate the alligator population. In 2025, she finally received her tag, selected from the Pee Dee region. “This year, I finally had enough preference points,” Brittany explained, noting the competition for tags. Every season, over 12,000 applicants vie for just 1,400 available tags.

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources oversees this lottery system to maintain a balanced alligator population. Former alligator program coordinator Jay Butfiloski noted, “The goal is not to eliminate alligators. It’s to allow some harvest, which helps manage the population and reduce nuisance issues.”

The Livingstons faced a grueling fight with the alligator that lasted hours. They successfully shot the animal in the head shortly after 3:00 a.m., marking a significant achievement for the couple during their maternity leave.

This remarkable story is not just about hunting; it highlights the balance between wildlife management and personal achievement. As “Gator Girl” gains fame, her story resonates with many who appreciate the thrill of the hunt and the challenges of motherhood. Stay tuned for more updates as this story continues to unfold!