The largest alligator in the history of Gatorland has died.
Buddy, who measured about 13 feet, 8 inches, long and weighed nearly half a ton, had been in failing health for a while, according to an announcement on Gatorland’s social media accounts. The animal was under veterinary care, the post said.
“He was on and off medication, getting extra vitamins, and we did everything we could to keep him comfortable,” it said. “Those cold snaps this year certainly didn’t make things any easier on him. Our team here at Gatorland would find him early every morning to make sure he was OK.”
Gatorland, which has operated on South Orange Blossom Trail since 1949, is home to thousands of reptiles, some of which reside in a breeding marsh. The population is a combination of natives to the park and rescue animals.
“Over the years, Buddy touched the hearts of every one at the park and was loved by millions on our social media,” Gatorland’s Facebook post said. “Buddy helped shape Gatorland into what it is today. He made people fall in love with alligators.”
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Buddy’s size had given him the designation of “biggest” Gatorland gator a few years ago, the attraction said, surpassing longtime champion Chester, who died in late 2022.
A 2020 Orlando Sentinel story explored the relationship between the animals and Gatorland trainers. Brandon Fisher, director of media relations and now a 20-year veteran of the attraction, talked about Buddy.
“He’s probably one of the most gentle gators that I’ve worked with,” Fisher said in 2020. “But when I’m not working with him, he is probably one of the toughest alligators we have out here in the breeding marsh. … He lets everybody know that he is the king of the swamp here.”
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A 2017 Facebook video was titled “Buddy is the breeding marsh boss!”
“Every day is an adventure with him,” Fisher said.