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Local Celebrity Alligator Faces Relocation Due to Safety Concerns

Mr. Pickles, the famous alligator, enjoys the sun near Five Bucks Drinkery.

News Summary

In St. Petersburg, Florida, local alligator Mr. Pickles may be relocated after safety concerns arise. At five feet long, he has become a popular bar attraction, but both residents and wildlife officials worry about his growing size and potential aggression. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission hasn’t secured a new removal permit after previous attempts to trap him failed. While some patrons want him to stay, others call for relocation to ensure safety. Management is exploring options for independent relocation to protect Mr. Pickles and community safety.

St. Petersburg, Florida – Local celebrity alligator, Mr. Pickles, is facing the possibility of relocation due to growing safety concerns among residents and officials as he continues to reside in a makeshift pond just feet away from customers at Five Bucks Drinkery. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has expressed concerns about the alligator’s presence, particularly as he has outgrown the situation since he first emerged during the 2024 hurricane season at around 2.5 feet long. Mr. Pickles, now measuring approximately five feet, has become a popular attraction at the bar, but his increasing size is causing alarm for community safety.

The FWC has made multiple attempts to trap and relocate Mr. Pickles, but these efforts have been unsuccessful. Currently, the removal permit for the alligator has expired, and the agency has paused any further efforts to remove him. As a result, management at Five Bucks Drinkery is exploring independent relocation options, which may include offers from private lakes or wildlife rescues willing to provide sanctuary for Mr. Pickles.

While specific details regarding the timeline or confirmation of Mr. Pickles’ relocation remain uncertain, the FWC has not indicated whether they will reapply for a new removal permit. Particularly regarding Mr. Pickles’ potential for becoming larger or exhibiting aggressive behavior, the situation is being monitored closely.

Despite the safety concerns, Mr. Pickles is adored by patrons, and the bar recognizes him as a significant attraction, despite not actively marketing his presence. He has become the most photographed alligator in Pinellas County, drawing attention from visitors who come to see him up close. To maintain safety, staff at the bar are being trained to monitor interactions, ensuring patrons admire him from a safe distance and do not attempt to feed the alligator.

Under existing Florida law, alligators over four feet in length that pose threats to people, pets, or property are considered nuisance alligators. As Mr. Pickles continues to cruise the canal near the bar, both the public and local officials are expressing concerns. Some community members wish for Mr. Pickles to stay as part of the bar’s atmosphere, fearing his removal would alter the venue’s unique experience.

Efforts to catch Mr. Pickles have proved challenging, as he has consistently managed to evade trappers—leading to a “game of cat and mouse” scenario. A volunteer from a local nonprofit wildlife rescue organization has stepped in to assist in the humane capture of Mr. Pickles, aiming to ensure his safety during the relocation process. With discussions ongoing, an opportunity for permanent sanctuary on private land has arisen from local landowners who are willing to provide such accommodations if relocation becomes necessary.

As Mr. Pickles garners increasing attention due to his growing popularity and size, the situation surrounding his future remains a topic of considerable interest among locals and wildlife officials alike. The community watches closely as safety concerns mount while balancing their fondness for this local celebrity.