An Alligator Tried To Go Shopping At A North Carolina Beach Store

We are all familiar with the gimmicky beach stores where you can buy $5 towels, chairs, etc. You know how a lot of those will have a giant shark or other sea creature outside to try and convince you to visit that store and not one of the 30,000 others? Well, this story is not like this. Instead of a giant, fake, most likely fading alligator visitors at a North Carolina beach store saw the real thing. The Sunset Beach Police Department was called to Coastal Outfitters on Sunset Blvd N on Friday to deal with an alligator. The gator was out front of the store trying to lounge underneath a display of beach chairs. Unfortunately for it, they weren't for sale to the reptile.

And he was keeping customers away. An officer on the force and licensed by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission was able to remove the gator. The Sunset Beach Police Department notes in its Facebook statement that alligators often make their way into yards of public places, but they will not be removed for that reason alone. Since this alligator who tried to pick up some chairs at the North Carolina beach store was a safety concern that's why they relocated the animal to a nearby pond. Wonder if he will try to come back and complete the purchase?

The police also took this opportunity to remind the public of a few things involving alligators in North Carolina. They said that alligators are protected under North Carolina State Law. The also reiterate that alligators are dangerous animals. If you come across one, do not approach them. It's also important to note that alligators are very quick, especially for short distances.

You should, never feed alligators. Feeding alligators teaches them that humans are sources of food, which could lead to injury or even death. Feeding alligators outside of captivity in North Carolina is prohibited by General Statute. So next time you're grabbing some beach toys, maybe do a double take. You never know what you might see!

It seems like all of our Google searches are "best cheap travel destinations" and if you're in North Carolina then you don't have to travel too far from home to find it!

U.S. News & World Report ranked the best cheap vacations around the country. According to the website, "Whether you're seeking a fun national park adventure, a beach escape or a small-town getaway, you'll discover plenty of budget-friendly vacation options on this list."

"Located in western North Carolina, Asheville appeals to nature lovers and adventure travelers. Take a drive along scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, hike to breathtaking waterfalls in Pisgah National Forest or learn about Southern Appalachian plant species at the Botanical Gardens at Asheville. Save money on lodging by opting for a hostel or vacation rental downtown or test your wilderness skills on a camping trip. You'll also want to time your visit for summer when the town holds several free music festivals."

"Spending time in the sun is the main reason to make the trip to Nags Head, part of the Outer Banks region of North Carolina. The beach town's sky-high sand dunes in Jockey's Ridge State Park and great fishing spots in the surrounding Gulf Stream waters attract travelers with varying interests. When visitors are not lounging on the sand, they can explore Nags Head lighthouses or look for birds, sea turtles and more at nearby Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Fall and spring are the best seasons to visit thanks to fewer crowds and lower prices for accommodations."