Alligator Spotted Getting Some Sun In Oklahoma

As the seasons change, nature is always the best measure of what to expect next in Oklahoma. It appears spring is finally here in full form as the rare Sooner State alligators are out and about already.

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If you weren't aware, Oklahoma has a small population of native American alligators down in the Southeast corner of the state where the plains meet the swamplands.

While they're normally found in the swampy waters of Red Slough and the adjoining waterways, they do occasionally get spotted pretty far from their usual habitat. Once a few years ago as far away as Tishomingo. That's 150-ish miles from their territory, but that was in the depth of summer.

Oklahoma Alligators On the Move Early in 2025

We all assume it was a local angler out in Pushmataha County (say that five times fast) who spotted one of our ancient native gators out sunning itself during these first few warm days of spring.

If you're thinking to yourself "Where is Pushmataha County?" you're not alone. That's a wildcard locale if you're not familiar with the area. It's way down Southeast and the only town you might recognize is Antlers.

While it's a lot closer than Tishomingo to the assumed and state-designed natural habitat area for Sooner State gators, it's surprising to see them this far away so early in the season.

If you've never explored the Southeastern parts of the state, it's where some of Oklahoma's prettiest places are depending on the time of year. If you get the chance, you might meander on down there and take it all in.