Gator Girl Belays Social Life To Rescue Nuisance Alligators

While her peers are out socializing with other folk their age, Gabby Scampone is wrestling alligators. She moved from New York to Florida few months ago to pursue a career in relocating and caring for alligators.Show more

Gabby says she’s been loving reptiles since she was 15, so with the lack of alligators in New York, she decided to seek her happiness elsewhere.

“When I moved here and told my parents that I was wrestling alligators they weren’t too excited. They were obviously afraid for me because it can be dangerous. But they support me in everything I do." says the brave 22-year-old. With her boss Paul Bedard she volunteers at Everglades Holiday Park, where she puts on a daily show wrestling alligators whilst also educating the audience.

She might be following the career path she always wanted, but it doesn’t come without some difficulties. Mainly, it is Gabby’s social life that has taken a toll. "So I was actually on a date last week. Half way through the date, Paul calls me about an alligator. So obviously I have to go get it, but it was a blessing in disguise because the guy didn’t want to come with me.

Gabby says she will continue pursuing her dream career with alligators, hoping to not lose any fingers in the process.