At 1:50 AM on September 16th in 2004, Hurricane Ivan rolled ashore in Gulf Shores, Alabama. The storm devasted the area and many national news outlets came to the area to cover the story. However, the story that really caught the nation's attention was a missing alligator named Chucky. The story got so big that it eventually spawned a television series called "The Little Zoo That Could" starring then Zoo Director, Patty Hall.

Locals will remember all of the "Chucky" theories and stories from that time. People were afraid they might run into Chucky in the water-covered streets. Others thought that he had gone to join his friends in the lagoon.

Of course, Chucky was later found and still resides at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

The zoo is celebrating with discounted tickets on Sunday and regaling the story which took place 20 years ago.

FROM THE ZOO:

Chucky’s Ivan adventure has become a legendary tale of survival and resilience, capturing the imagination of all who hear it. His story is a testament to the wild spirit of nature and the incredible efforts of those who protect it. With each re-telling, the details of Chucky’s escapade grow more sensational, transforming him into a mythical figure of local folklore. From daring escapes to phantom sightings, Chucky’s legend continues to evolve, enchanting new generations with every recounting.

THE REAL STORY:

During Hurricane Ivan in 2004, Chucky, an 11-foot, estimated 1,000-pound alligator, floated out of his enclosure at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo due to rising waters. Chucky’s whereabouts were unknown for five days, causing concern among locals, authorities, and zoo staff. He was eventually located and captured in the swamp lands behind the zoo, bordering the state park, by an alligator retrieval team from Gatorland in Orlando, FL. The Gatorland team, with the support of local police and members of the National Guard, safely returned Chucky to his home at the zoo.

Chucky still lives at the Zoo and can be seen daily, either swimming in his pond or sunning on the bank, living his best life.