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12-foot-long alligator spotted by tourists on Florida reserve

Police confirmed the authenticity of the video, after viewers claimed it was photoshopped

Matt Murphy
Wednesday 18 January 2017 05:11 EST
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Massive alligator caught on camera in Florida nature reserve

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Video has captured the moment visitors to a nature reserve crossed the path of a giant alligator.

Kim Joiner was within metres of the animal at Circle B Bar Reserve in Florida, and was quick enough to reach for her camera.

“I saw it coming.” Ms Joiner said in a post on Facebook.

“I have been more scared when they just cross with no warning on Alligator Alley Trail. I love Circle B. Nature at its best.”

The alligator is believed to be over 12 feet long and weigh around 800 pounds.

Although some had questioned the authenticity of the video, police confirmed the animal was real.

Locals had previously nicknamed the animal “Big Humpback”, claiming he had been around for years.

“No Photoshop,” Joiner said. “He was the biggest gator I have seen out there. I have been going out there for years too.”

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