Legendary Alligator RDR2 â Location, Tips & How to Kill

In the swamps of Lemoyne, where the air hangs thick with fog and the water whispers danger, a monstrous beast lurks beneath the surface. The Legendary Alligator in Red Dead Redemption 2 is not just a challengeâitâs a moment. This apex predator represents one of the gameâs most intense and atmospheric hunts. With massive size, surprising speed, and a terrifying presence, itâs a showdown that demands precision, patience, and the right preparation.
In this guide, youâll learn where to find the Legendary Alligator, how to track it, what weapons to bring, and how to survive the hunt. Whether youâre after its pelt for crafting or just chasing that 100% completion, this is everything you need to know.
Where to Find the Legendary Alligator

The Legendary Alligator resides in Lemoyne , specifically in the Lagras Swamp area, near Lakay . But thereâs a catchâyou canât hunt it immediately.
Unlocking the Hunt:
You must first complete the Chapter 6 story mission: âCountry Pursuits.â
Only after this mission will the white paw icon appear on your map, marking the alligatorâs territory.
Once unlocked, head to the northwest corner of the Bayou Nwa , near Lakay . The area is marshy and dense, making it easy to walk right into the beastâs path if youâre not careful.
Tip: Equip Arthur with a good horse and pack extra health tonics before venturing into the swamp.
How to Track the Legendary Alligator
Just like other legendary animals in RDR2, the alligator must be tracked using Eagle Eye .
Look for These Clues:
Broken branches or flattened grass near the waterline.
Animal droppings near shallow ponds.
Drag marks through the mud.
Follow the glowing yellow particle trail until it leads to the final confrontation. Be warned: unlike other hunts, this one escalates quickly.
Best Weapons to Use
Youâll need something powerful, fast, and preferably long-range. The Legendary Alligator is massive and can take a beating.
Recommended Loadout:
Bolt-Action Rifle with Express Ammo
Shotgun (Double-Barreled or Semi-Auto) for close quarters
Poisoned Throwing Knives (if youâre feeling bold)
Dead Eye tonics for slow-motion targeting
A clean kill isnât required for legendary pelts, so use whatever gives you the upper hand.
The Kill: What to Expect
This is not a quiet stalk. The Legendary Alligator charges, lunges, and can kill Arthur in one hit if youâre caught off-guard.
Strategy:
Find higher ground if possible.
Use Dead Eye to land headshots as it approaches.
If it charges, dodge sideways and fire point-blank with your shotgun.
The beast wonât go down easy. Expect to reload and reposition several times.
Legendary Alligator Crafting Rewards
Once the gator is down, skin it and take the Legendary Alligator Skin and Tooth to a Trapper or Fence .
Crafting Table:
| Item | Where to Craft | Effect/Use |
|---|---|---|
| Alligator Tooth Talisman | Fence | Slows down weapon degradation by 10% |
| Legendary Alligator Vest | Trapper | Cosmetic item, part of exotic outfits |
| Alligator Gamblerâs Hat | Trapper | Style bonus, adds to gambler outfit set |
The Alligator Tooth Talisman in particular is a top-tier upgrade. If you're someone who relies on repeat weapon use in extended firefights or long bounty runs, the reduction in weapon wear is a major asset. Crafted using the legendary alligator tooth, an old brass compass, and a gold jointed bracelet, it's one of the most practical talismans in the game.
Bring the meat to camp or cook it for one of the most nourishing meals in the game.
Pro Tips for the Hunt
Wait for Foggy Weather: The swamp is scarierâand more cinematicâwhen mist rolls in.
Save Before You Hunt: Things can go south quickly. Always have a save ready.
Use Cover Scent Lotion: It helps avoid other aggressive predators.
Scout with Binoculars: Spot the gator before it spots you.
Bring Your Best Horse: Quick escapes are key in the swampâs tangled paths.
Circle Back to the Site: If you lose the trail, double back and look for fresh clues.
Why You Should Hunt It
Besides the thrill, the alligator yields one of the most useful talismans for weapon users. If you plan to use high-powered rifles or revolvers, that degradation bonus saves time and money.
And letâs not overlook styleâcrafting the vest and hat makes for a standout appearance in Saint Denis, showing off your wilderness mastery with flair.
Bonus: What Happens if You Fail the Hunt?
If you die during the encounter, donât worry. The Legendary Alligator will respawn after 48 in-game hours . Just return to the area, and the white icon will reappear.
Avoid looting during a thunderstorm. It can glitch the spawn cycle.
If you lost the tooth in transit or during a bug, visit the Trapper again once the game time passes. You may find the item still available to craft the Alligator Tooth Talisman .