A massive 400-pound alligator with apparent “scaly intentions” was apprehended in North Carolina after being seen loitering “near the double yellow line” on a local roadway — raising eyebrows and sparking laughter over its alleged prehistoric origins.
Nicknamed “Pepe the Gator,” the 10-foot-long reptile was discovered off the pavement in Jacksonville, about 120 miles south of Raleigh. According to a humorous Facebook post by the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office, witnesses reported the gator “was just chilling and snapping” while clearly ignoring the “no loitering or lounging on roadways” sign.
A Dinosaur in Disguise?
Authorities jokingly charged the prehistoric-looking suspect with “Suspicion of Being a Dinosaur without Proper Papers,” as well as “Public Loitering with Intent to Sunbathe” and “Obstructing Traffic.” The satirical charges sparked amusement online, with many wondering if Jurassic Park had finally come to North Carolina.
Despite Pepe’s reluctance to cooperate — with officers noting he “refused to be cuffed” — no injuries were reported in the incident.
Safe Return to the Wild
Pepe was safely captured and transported to a boat ramp on Camp Geiger, just a few miles away, where he was released back into the wild the same day, Trevor Dunnell, spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, confirmed to USA TODAY.
Alligators Are Common in North Carolina
While Pepe made headlines for his comical brush with the law, experts stress that American alligators are not uncommon in North Carolina. According to the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, alligators naturally inhabit the state’s bay lakes, swamps, rivers, creeks, marshes, and ponds. North Carolina marks the northernmost edge of the alligator’s natural range, and they generally become less common further north along the coast.
Adult males can grow up to 13 feet in length and weigh as much as 500 pounds, while females typically reach under 9 feet and weigh up to 200 pounds. Despite their size, these animals are known to be shy and secretive.
Safety and Protection
The North Carolina Wildlife Federation reminds the public that feeding, touching, harming, harassing, or poaching alligators is illegal. Officials recommend maintaining a minimum distance of 50 feet if you encounter one in the wild and staying alert in areas where they’re known to roam.
As for Pepe, he’s back to basking in the sun — hopefully far from any yellow lines or traffic signs.
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