MACON, Ga. — A 12-foot alligator caused a stir outside a Macon McDonald’s last week, drawing crowds and sparking a flurry of calls to authorities as locals tried to capture the massive reptile themselves.

The incident, which quickly gained attention on social media , is just the latest in a string of alligator sightings reported across Central Georgia this summer.

But experts say the increase in reports may have more to do with people than with gators.

Kara Nitschke, the official state alligator biologist for Department of Natural Resources, said alligators have long been a part of life in southern Georgia. But as more people move into areas where alligators live, sightings are becoming more common in places like Macon.

“In south Georgia, alligators are a part of life. But north of

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