'Massive' alligator weighing about 700 pounds found in ditch

A wildlife biologist in Georgia recently encountered a "massive" alligator weighing an estimated 700 pounds and measuring 13 feet and 4 inches in length, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

Brent Howze found the animal on Feb. 18 in an irrigation ditch near a lake, DNR spokesperson Sarah Hanson told USA TODAY on Saturday.

A photo showing the gator with Howze in the background prompted an investigation from local media to prove it wasn't a "hoax." Hanson verified the photo to USA TODAY.  

The animal was euthanized due to its poor condition; the large alligator had several old gunshot wounds, Hanson said.

source: USA Today