Urban Legend Animals Geography

Giant Alligators Live in New York City Sewers

An enduring legend with no verified sightings

People flushed baby alligators down toilets, which grew to full size in the sewer system beneath major cities.

The alligators-in-sewers myth became popular in the 1960s-1980s but has never been verified despite urban legends pinpointing it mainly to New York City. Alligators cannot survive in cold climates, and sewer temperatures and environments would be lethal. No remains or credible sightings have ever been documented.

Believed Since 1960
Year Revised 1985
Why Changed Never True
Confidence Fully Debunked
Region Worldwide

Reception

8/10
7/10

Sources

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