Eagle Lake homeowners wake to 8 to 10 foot gator on the lawn

A couple in Eagle Lake awoke Tuesday morning to discover an enormous alligator resting on their lawn.

photo by David Day

The alligator, estimated to be 8 to 10 feet long, was lying in the sun next to the fence line.  Although the creature was docile and resting, alligators are swift and deadly predators.

photo by David Day

The couple has owned the property for 25 years and lived there full-time for the past eight years.  They say this is the first time they’ve had an alligator come into the yard.

Deputy Johnny Beauchamp gains control of the animal so that Lee Harvey can secure the massive animal for transport (photo by David Day)

Warren County Sheriff’s Deputy Johnny Beauchamp and Lee Harvey with MS Dept. of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks wrangled the beast with a catch pole, and within a few minutes the experienced officials were able to secure the animal for safe transport.