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The PGA TOUR’s Most Wacky Reptile Run-Ins

PGA Reptile Run-Ins
Big Gator on the Golf Course via PGA TOURS.

Ever thought you’d see a golfer teeing off with a dragon in the audience? Well, today is (almost) your lucky day! The next best thing is a video of The PGA TOUR’s Most Wacky Reptile Run-Ins!

When Fairways Become Runways for the Wild

PGA Reptile Run-Ins
Big Gator on the Golf Course via PGA TOURS:

Imagine lining up for a putt and noticing an alligator sauntering down the fairway like it’s got a VIP pass. Or a snake casually photobombing your perfect swing. This isn’t your average Sunday golf game—this is PGA TOUR meets Animal Planet, and the wildlife is not shy about stealing the spotlight.

Meet Stompy: The Alligator with a Swagger

Stompy
Stompy captured by PGA TOURS.

One of the show’s stars is Stompy, an alligator with a distinctive limp, thanks to missing one leg, who’s practically a local celebrity at TPC Louisiana

With his undeniable charisma, Stompy has become a fan favorite. Thus, reminding everyone that even with a bogey, you still have more legs than he does. His laid-back attitude and fearless strut across the green have made him an honorary course marshal.

The Iguana Incident: A Golf Ball Snack Attack

Iguana
Iguana with his eyes set on the ball. Captured by PGA TOURS.

Then there’s the tale of the ambitious iguana. Who was convinced that a player’s golf ball was the juiciest fruit it had ever seen. This daring lizard made a beeline for the ball mid-tournament, sparking a hilarious standoff between reptile and golfer. 

The iguana, undeterred by the bewildered golfer’s attempts to shoo it away, providing comic relief and proving that anyone can be a player on the golf course.

Golf’s Unexpected Guests

Alligator
Alligator on golf course via PGA TOURS.

These reptilian gatecrashers bring a whole new meaning to “natural hazards.” Whether it’s gators taking strolls or snakes adding an extra slither to the rough, these encounters remind us that golf courses are vibrant ecosystems where humans are just visitors. And let’s be honest, these surprise interactions add a layer of excitement and unpredictability that even the most perfectly manicured course can’t provide.

Dragons? In My Golf Course?

Lizard
Captured by Brian Kusko via youtube

Yes, you read that right. Monitor lizards, the gentle giants of the reptile world, are often mistaken for mythical dragons as they roam the courses. These “dragons” are known for their nonchalant attitude towards golfers. Consequently, offering a moment of awe and a quick reality check – you’re in their world now.

Why We Can’t Get Enough of These Wild Encounters

PGA Reptile Run-Ins
Gator on the Golf Course via PGA TOURS.

There’s something inherently amusing about watching professional athletes navigate nature’s unexpected challenges. Each reptilian rendezvous is a reminder that the world is full of surprises and a good sense of humor is the best club in your bag.

The Unwritten Rules of Golfing with Gators

An large alligator look up the see if there are any food ready, with the sharp teeth via DepostiPhotos
An large alligator look up the see if there are any food ready, with the sharp teeth via Depositphotos

The video also serves as an unofficial guide to the unwritten rules of golfing with gators and their scaly friends. 

  • Rule number one: always let the alligator play through. 
  • Rule number two: if your ball lands next to a “dragon,” it’s probably best to take a drop. 
  • Rule number three is always to check the water hazards for swimming hazards.

Let’s quickly explore the fascinating physical features of the crocodile we so often see on the field…

Skin

saltwater crocodile
Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus). This is Maximo, a 15’+ crocodile at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm. Obtained from Molly Ebersold of the St. Augustine Alligator Farm, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Crocodiles have tough, scaly skin that gives them protection and camouflage.

Eyes

Young alligator. I
African dwarf crocodile baby, its scientific name is Osteolaemus tetraspis. mage via Depositphotos.

Crocodiles’ eyes are positioned on top of their heads. This lets them see above water while the rest of their body is submerged!

Teeth

saltwater crocodile
Saltwater crocodile. Image via Depositphotos

Crocodiles have sharp, conical teeth.

Jaws

crocodile
Image via Depositphotos

Crocodiles have a powerful jaw and a strong bite force which is very cabable of crushing bones.

Tail

crocodile
Saltwater crocodile. Image via Depositphotos

A crocodile’s tail is muscular and used for propulsion in water.

Legs

saltwater crocodile
Saltwater crocodile. Image via Depositphotos

Crocodiles have short, sturdy legs with webbed feet.

Nostrils

crocodile
Saltwater crocodile as it emerges from water with a toothy grin. Image via Depositphotos

Their nostrils are located on top of their snouts. This lets them breathe while mostly submerged.

Ears

crocodile
Saltwater crocodile underwater shot. Image via Depositphotos

Crocodiles have small, slit-like ears that close when submerged.

Scutes

crocodile
Crocodile roaming in the water. Image via Depositphotos

Crocodiles’ backs are covered with bony plates called scutes.

Belly

crocodile
Image via Depositphotos

The belly of a crocodile is softer and less protected than the back.

Size

crocodile
Image via Depositphotos

Crocodiles come in different sizes depending on the species. But some species grow up to 23 feet in length!

Coloration

crocodile
Crocodile. Image via Depositphotos

Crocodiles generally have a dark, earthy coloration.

The Wild Side of the PGA TOUR

Crocodile on ground
Crocodile on ground. Image via Depostiphotos

Here is the video link!

The video is more than just a compilation of animal encounters; it’s a celebration of the unexpected moments that make golf a uniquely thrilling sport. 

From Stompy’s confident jaunts across the green to an iguana with a taste for Titleists. These stories remind us that nature will always have a way of sneaking into the game, bringing laughter, surprises, and fun. 

So, next time you hit the links, keep an eye out—you never know when the next reptilian spectator will decide to join your foursome.

Let me know what you thought about this hilarious look at the most unforgettable PGA reptile run-ins on the green in the comments!

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