Parris Island, SC, August 27, 2025
News Summary
Fred, a massive alligator estimated at 12 feet long and 600 pounds, has become a local celebrity at the Legends at Parris Island Golf Course. Initially spotted in 2015, Fred captivates golfers with his size and unique behaviors. Despite being a wild creature, he is protected within the golf course area, attracting attention from visitors to this military training facility in South Carolina. Merchandise featuring Fred, including a unique cap, has further solidified his status as a beloved landmark in the region.
Parris Island
A massive alligator known as Fred has become a local legend among golfers at the Legends at Parris Island Golf Course. This iconic creature has captivated both locals and visitors with his impressive size and unique personality. Fred is estimated to be at least 12 feet long and weighs approximately 600 pounds, making him a substantial presence on the golf course.
The Legends at Parris Island is situated within a military training base in South Carolina, primarily known for producing Marines. Although the course is part of a military facility, it is open to the public and managed by Marine Corps Community Services. Nearby, Hilton Head Island attracts nearly three million visitors annually, many drawn by its subtropical climate and beautiful oceanfront beaches, as well as its acclaimed golf courses.
Fred is believed to be between 35 and 40 years old, with some estimates suggesting he could be as old as 80. Alligators typically have a lifespan of around 60 years in the wild. He gained his name from local golfer Patrick Turso, who first spotted Fred in 2015. Since then, Turso has been sharing updates about the alligator on social media, contributing to Fred’s stature as a local celebrity.
The Local Celebrity
Over the years, Fred has garnered a significant following due to his remarkable size and interesting behaviors. His tail alone is longer than a person standing at 5-foot-5. Golfers on the course have observed him hunting and consuming various prey, including raccoons, and even catching a vulture mid-air. His fame has proliferated to the extent that the golf course has created special merchandise, including the “Fred cap,” designed with an American flag featuring red alligators in place of stripes.
Habitat and Safety
Fred is not alone on the golf course; he shares his territory with other alligators, including one known as “Yellow Tail,” the second largest alligator in the area. While hunting alligators is permitted in South Carolina, it is strictly prohibited on Parris Island, making Fred a protected species within this environment.
The alligator population in South Carolina is estimated to be around 100,000, primarily residing in coastal areas like Parris Island. As delightful as Fred may be, experts caution that he remains a wild animal, and interactions should be approached with caution. As he has become a beloved icon, there are signs throughout Parris Island reminding visitors of the presence of alligators. These signs stress the importance of not feeding the wildlife, as this behavior could lead to dangerous encounters.
Conclusion
Fred the alligator is more than just a resident at the Legends at Parris Island Golf Course; he has become an essential part of the community. His captivating presence has not only enchanted golfers but has also drawn attention to the diverse wildlife native to the area. As both a striking example of South Carolina’s natural habitat and a beloved local figure, it serves as a reminder of the wild elements that coexist with everyday life in this picturesque region.
FAQ
What is the size and weight of Fred?
Fred is estimated to be at least 12 feet long and weighs approximately 600 pounds.
How old is Fred the alligator?
Fred is believed to be between 35 and 40 years old, but he could potentially be as old as 80.
Is hunting allowed at the Parris Island Golf Course?
Hunting alligators is prohibited at Parris Island, making Fred a protected creature within this area.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | At least 12 feet long, 600 pounds |
| Age | 35-40 years, possibly up to 80 |
| Population | Approximately 100,000 alligators in SC |
| Merchandise | Special “Fred cap” sold |
| Protection Status | Hunting prohibited at Parris Island |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WJCL: Massive Alligator Becomes Local Celebrity at the Legends Golf Course on Parris Island
- Wikipedia: Alligator
- AccuWeather: South Carolina Woman Fights Off Alligator to Save Husband
- Google Search: Alligators in South Carolina
- Southern Thing: Two Huge Gators Caught on Video in Brutal Brawl on South Carolina Golf Course
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Alligator
- The State: South Carolina News
- Google News: Parris Island Alligator
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
