Alligator mississippiensis

The American alligator, or Alligator mississippiensis, is a large reptile found in many areas of the southeastern United States. These creatures can reach lengths of up to fifteen feet and reside in or near aquatic environments such as swamps, lakes, rivers, ponds, and marshy areas.
I recently came upon an alligator off of Little Briton Rd in Hollywood, SC. This particular alligator was around 6 feet in length. Actual measurements were not taken, merely estimated, as closer examination would have been dangerous.  I was not able to determine the sex of the animal, but it may have been female, as female alligators are typically smaller than males. The length of this alligator also suggests it may have been a young adult. This animal was observed swimming around a small freshwater pond in which it had been seen previously and could possibly call home. The surrounding area contains a number of small freshwater ponds, in which I have seen other alligators of smaller lengths. This was an exciting find as I had previously not found an alligator of this size on this property. I now hope to find this creature again or potentially an even larger specimen.
The American alligator is different from crocodiles, in that these alligators have a hidden fourth tooth. In crocodiles, this tooth is exposed when the jaw is closed.