I don’t think of Alligators outside the swamps or marshes. OK, a golf course doesn’t count. This alligator was floating along the river banks under a few large oak trees.

What stopped this photograph from being deleted with all the other alligator shots is the stare. Click to enlarge and see him stare right at you.
From right here the Ashley River meets downtown Charleston SC in about 10 miles.
You’re right!
As if to prove a point while I was out photographing that Alligator another was captured near by. That one was almost 14 feet. I’m not sure my car is that long! Both were in the Ashley River, not a back swamp. In fairness the bigger animals make a point of staying away from boats and people. I do find them to make a great photo subject though.