In a remarkable feat, a group of hunters in Mississippi successfully subdued an astonishingly long alligator, shattering previous records. The gargantuan male creature measured over 4.3m (14ft 3in) in length and weighed a staggering 364kg (57 stone). According to the local wildlife department, the alligator was "captured" on the Yazoo River, securing its place in the state's history books. The achievement was celebrated by the four skilled hunters involved in the arduous process: Tanner White, Don Woods, Will Thomas, and Joey Clark. Images shared on social media depict the hunters cautiously measuring the awe-inspiring alligator as it stared intently at the camera. Don Woods recollected that the intense battle to capture and subdue the alligator commenced at 9pm, stretching into the wee hours of the night and encompassing a grueling seven-hour ordeal. The resilient creature managed to evade capture multiple times, snapping fishing lines in the process. "He dictated everything we did. It was exhausting, but your adrenaline is going, so you don't notice it," Mr. Woods shared with the Clarion Ledger. He further noted that the mental fortitude required during the encounter surpassed the physical strain, as the alligator cunningly evaded their every move. This remarkable event unfolded at the outset of Mississippi's hunting season, a limited 10-day period during which licensed individuals are permitted to hunt a specified number of alligators in designated areas. During the 2021 season, a total of 776 alligators were harvested, while an additional 1,581 were captured and subsequently released by the Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks (MDWFP). Although alligators generally steer clear of human interactions, occasionally, they venture into peculiar locations such as ditches, backyards, swimming pools, and even buildings. While not typically aggressive towards humans, there have been reports of dog attacks and concerns of potential harm to individuals from these carnivorous creatures. Distinguishing themselves from crocodiles, alligators typically inhabit freshwater marshes as opposed to salty waters. Mississippi, home to a substantial alligator population, continues to captivate nature enthusiasts with its impressive wildlife diversity.